New South Wales (NSW) has reported the highest number of dating scams in Australia, with many victims being older individuals who fall prey to fraudsters. One such case involves a man named Mark*, who has lost over $400,000 to online scammers, despite his family’s attempts to intervene. Katie*, his ex-wife, explained how her former partner, in his 60s and dealing with cognitive impairments, continues to send money to individuals he believes are potential romantic partners.
The emotional toll of these scams is significant, with many victims hesitant to report the fraud due to embarrassment or denial. Former NSW police officer Kylee Dennis, now running a scam investigation business, works with families of victims who often reach out on behalf of their loved ones. Many of the victims she assists have lost substantial sums, with a combined total of $2.9 million.
NSW Police encourage victims to report such scams, emphasizing that investigators are non-judgmental and focused on bringing the criminals to justice. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) highlights the growing issue, noting over 660 reported dating scams in NSW in 2024 alone, with losses totaling $7.4 million. The elderly, particularly those aged 65 and older, are most commonly targeted.
For many, the journey of helping loved ones navigate through the emotional and financial wreckage of these scams continues to be a painful one, underscoring the vulnerability of individuals seeking companionship in the digital age.
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