Private investigator for online dating and romance fraud

Watch out for fraudsters who commit online dating scams. Fraudsters are increasingly using social media and online dating websites to commit online dating scams.

Believe that you may be on sketchy online dating sites or that you’re dating someone who is a scam? A private investigator for online dating can investigate this for you. Speak to a member of the UKPI team today!

What is Romance Fraud?

Romance Fraud is where an individual pretends to be someone that they are not, in order to deceive you and in basic terms, to take your money!

How common is Romance Fraud?

Romance Fraud is more common than you would think. More than £ 97.4 Million was lost to Romance Fraud in 2023 and 1 in 10 adults have experienced this terrible crime (those who reported)

If you think you may be being targeted by a potential Romance Fraudster, get in touch with us now to avoid any heartache or loss of your money. Over the years, we have saved our clients millions of pounds, simply by investigating the individuals they have been chatting with on dating sites.

Based on self-reports of losses, a staggering £409,749,344 was taken from scammed members of the public in dating schemes, at an average of over £10,000 per report.

Experts in Romance Fraud Investigation

Our investigators are highly skilled and have many years of experience in multiple disciplines. We have access to multiple non pubic sources and utilise a variety of methods to ensure that your case will be thoroughly and diligently investigated

Dating Site Scams - Facts

Romance scams rose by 22% last year.Average £6,937 stolen.People aged between 55 and 64 most likely to fall victim.

(Lloyds Bank)

Do not fall victim to Dating Site Fraud. Contact us today for a free, no obligation and completely confidential chat.

Romance Fraud - Facts

Data, which comes from members of the public reporting crimes to Action Fraud, indicates that there were nearly 40,000 cases of romance fraud between January 2020 and December 2024.As the figures are based only on those who reported the crime, and account for the amount that victims initially believe they have lost, the true figures could be much higher.

We are here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Either click on the contact us link at the top of the page or use the Whatsapp link below. We are sympathetic, and VERY discreet.

Discreet background checking and vetting

Online dating checks can put your mind at rest when you’re gearing up to take the next step with a partner you’ve met online. When you enlist us to make sure your new love interest is as serious about finding romance as you are, we’ll carry out a series of background checks that can make you aware of anything that could point to an ulterior motive.

We do not restrict our checks to simple database searches; our comprehensive background check service is designed to give you the information you require about potential relationships. Our private investigators will check for fake profiles among other things, helping you to avoid falling for even the cleverest of romance scams.

Rest assured that the tried and tested online dating background checks we use to sniff out internet dating fraud are nothing but discreet. The subject of our investigations will be none the wiser that you’ve done your due diligence. Our aim is to provide you with the information you require to enable you to make an informed decision regarding the individual in question.

How to spot online dating fraud

When you start getting interested in a romantic partner online, these are a few telltale signs to look out for that suggest all is not as it seems:

Scammers use photos of models on their fake profiles
A scammer will often ask for your email address right away, or give you theirs; they want to communicate off the dating site as soon as possible
The scammer will have a hard luck story to make you feel sorry for them, and they ask for financial help or get you to offer it because you are ‘such a nice person’
The scammer may offer you money to gain your trust; they will send counterfeit cheques that eventually bounce at your bank and get you into trouble
They’re from your country but claim to travel for their job, such as working an oil rig, or buying antiques. They then lose their ID and money, and have been arrested or injured and urgently need funds to get back home
They’re always texting, but avoiding phone calls or in-person meetings

These are just a few of the potential warning signs, but by no means are we suggesting that every contact you make is a scammer. However, we will be able to confirm if they are before you make any type of commitment to them, and most certainly before you arrange any kind of meeting.

For your safety, we suggest running an investigation before you meet people on a date. Take a family member or close friend with you to the designated meeting area, which should always be a public place.

If you suspect your partner may be cheating on you, we also conduct investigations to catch a cheating partner.

Some of our private investigator services

Why hire UK Private investigators

We have over 28 years of genuine investigative experience and our agents are all highly trained professional who bring multiple disciplines. We are always sympathetic and extremely discreet.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a PI cost in the UK?

The cost of a private investigator in the UK can vary depending on several factors such as the complexity of the case, the location, and the specific services required. Generally, private investigators charge an hourly rate ranging from £40 to £100, but it is advisable to contact a few local agencies and discuss your case to get an accurate estimate.

Is hiring a private investigator illegal in the UK?

No, it is not illegal to hire a private investigator in the UK. Private investigators operate within the boundaries of the law and must adhere to legal and ethical standards in their work. However, it is important to ensure that you hire a licensed and reputable investigator who follows the proper procedures and safeguards your privacy rights.

What can a private investigator not do in the UK?

While private investigators can conduct various legal investigations, there are certain activities they cannot engage in. In the UK, private investigators cannot:

– Trespass on private property without permission.

– Access someone’s personal records, such as medical or financial information, without proper authorization or consent.

– Intercept communications (phone calls, emails, etc.) without lawful authority.

– Pose as a law enforcement officer or misrepresent their identity.

– Commit any illegal activities or engage in behavior that violates a person’s rights.

Is hiring a private investigator considered harassment in the UK?

Hiring a private investigator is not considered harassment in itself, as long as the investigator follows legal and ethical guidelines while conducting their work. Private investigators must adhere to the law and respect an individual’s privacy rights. However, if an investigator engages in illegal or unethical practices, such as stalking, invasion of privacy, or harassment, then it would be considered unlawful and can lead to legal consequences. It is important to ensure you hire a reputable and licensed investigator who operates within the boundaries of the law.

Is it worth it to hire a private investigator?

Hiring a private investigator can be worth it in certain situations. They have the skills, experience, and resources to uncover information and conduct investigations that may not be accessible to the general public. Whether it’s for personal or professional reasons, if you require reliable and discreet information, hiring a private investigator can provide valuable assistance.

How much does a PI cost?

The cost of hiring a private investigator can vary depending on several factors such as the location, the complexity of the case, and the specific services required. Private investigators typically charge by the hour, and the rates can range from around £40 to £100 per hour. It is advisable to contact a few different investigators, discuss your case, and obtain a detailed quote specific to your needs in order to get an accurate estimate.