Salons and barbers invited to join campaign against romance fraud

Dorset Police is partnering with hair salons and barbers across the county in a campaign to combat romance fraud.

Romance fraud involves gaining a person's trust to steal their money or personal information. Victims often suffer financial losses and emotional trauma.

With Valentine's Day approaching, Dorset Police is reaching out to the hair and beauty industry, urging staff to inform clients about romance fraud.

Participating salons and barbers will receive training materials to help them discuss the issue, identify warning signs, and guide clients to support services.

The initiative aims to create safe environments for victims to report issues related to romance fraud.

Successful Pilot and Past Campaigns

The campaign builds on a trial at Toni & Guy salons in Bournemouth and Ringwood in 2025. It also follows Dorset Police's Big Night In campaign last Valentine's Day, which encouraged more victims to come forward.

Damian Cranny, Fraud Protect Officer at Dorset Police, said: “Meeting a partner online should be an enjoyable and safe experience. Sadly, criminals are using it as an opportunity to steal money and personal information. They know how to manipulate people’s emotions, which can override their critical thinking.

“By using salons and barber shops as a safe place to talk, we can beat the fraudsters from stealing people’s hearts and money, and ensure people feel supported to report romance fraud.”

Tips for Safe Online Dating

The Force also offers dating advice to help prevent fraud:

• Be cautious when sharing personal details online, especially with someone you haven't met in person
• Keep conversations on the dating platform until you meet face-to-face
• Consult a trusted friend or family member before sending money to anyone online
• Use reverse image searches to verify online profiles
• Be wary of requests for payments via gift cards or cryptocurrency
• Remember that healthy relationships shouldn't involve deception

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