Over the next couple of months, I will be taking a closer look at the areas of crime that most concern you - the people of Dorset. 

Over the past 3 years, I have held a number of surveys, and they all contain the same question on what types of crime most concerns you. One of the consistent responses centres on a raft of criminal activity that includes, Violence Against Women and Girls, Sexual Assault, Rape, Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Coercive Control. 

With those concerns in mind, this week, in light of it being Valentines Day this Friday, I would like to help raise awareness and get people talking about Romance Fraud. A pernicious crime that strikes at the very heart of those seeking out new relationships. 

There were 517 reports of dating scams in Dorset during the four years up to December, with 115 of those occurring in 2024.

Fraud is a scourge not visibly seen yet affects thousands across the country from which Dorset is no exception. Nationally, 40% of all crimes are fraud related and 80% of victims do not report to the police. Last year, figures suggested almost £92 million was lost nationally to this type of fraud. 

I want to now pass over to the lead Fraud Protection Officer within Dorset Police, Damian Cranny, to tell you about a new Community Safety Initiative called Dorset’s Big Night In: 

The Big Night In aims to spread vital safety messages about online dating and protecting vulnerable individuals. We want to keep on spreading the word far and wide about Romance Fraud. 

Romance fraud affects men and women of all ages and there has also been a large increase in men as young as 14 reporting being sextorted to Revenge Porn Helpline. Not only does this fraud effect people financially, but it also affects their mental health. 

I want to reassure people that it is more common than many think, and they should not feel gullible or stupid. Romance fraudsters target people of all genders, as well as the LGBTQ+ community. It affects young and old alike. 

By taking part in Dorset’s Big Night In, you can learn how to spot signs of romance fraud and find out how to report fraudsters, to help prevent more people falling victim to scams. 

On Friday 14 February and over the weekend, we are encouraging people to get together with friends or family and use the ‘Romance Fraud Big Night In’ pack. It includes detailed guidance about online dating safety, real world case studies, practical reporting mechanisms and support resources for vulnerable individuals. 

The aim is to better understand online dating safety in a relaxed and fun environment, learn how to report romance fraud, support each other and ultimately, disrupt criminals. Please encourage your social circles to get involved and even if you are not online dating, you can support someone you know who currently is. 

While online dating can be a wonderful way to find connection, it's essential to remain vigilant. Remember, true love does not ask for your bank details or avoid meeting in person. Stay safe, stay informed, and may your search for love be rewarding and secure. 

You can download the Big Night In pack and get all the details here. 

A big thanks to Damian for an insightful piece about the dangers posed by online romance and the positive initiative taking place later this week.  

If you can, please do take part and help make this campaign go viral - a simple social media post can encourage others to participate, view the important content and may just make huge difference to residents across our county. 

Lastly, I want to remind residents how crucial it is to report fraud whether recent or historical so it can be properly investigated. Intelligence gathering is crucial in building a bigger picture and tracking down the heinous individuals committing these crimes.

So please do come forward, and report fraud and get the help and support that is waiting for you.

David Sidwick

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner