Nottingham Pensioner Scammed Out of £170,000 in Heartbreaking Crypto Romance Rip-Off
A woman in her 70s from Rushcliffe, Nottinghamshire, was conned out of a staggering £170,000 in a sophisticated crypto romance scam. The victim fell prey to a criminal gang operating from Nigeria, posing as a US Army surgeon.
How the Scam Worked: Fake Love and Bitcoin Tricks
It all started in May 2020 when the pensioner struck up an online relationship. Communication soon moved to Google Hangouts, where the fraudster spun a convincing tale. Claiming he was in love but stuck under contract, he pressured her for money — saying Bitcoin was the only way to free him early.
Believing the man’s stories and his promise to repay her with his own funds, she withdrew thousands from her bank accounts. She fed the cash into Bitcoin ATMs around Nottingham, unaware the Bitcoin wallet she paid into was fake. Instead of a loving suitor, she was handing money over to organised crime.
Bank and Police Step In, But £60,000 Still Lost
Nottinghamshire Police’s Fraud Protect team were alerted after multiple large transactions raised alarms at the bank. After an 18-month online relationship, the victim was finally convinced she’d been scammed. The financial ombudsman forced the bank to refund £110,000, but the woman was still £60,000 out of pocket — emotionally drained after months of stress and uncertainty.
Fraud Protect officer Dale Richardson said: “Romance fraud is a particularly callous crime that targets the most vulnerable in society. This victim was exploited over 18 months out of £170,000 through fabricated stories by someone pretending to be a US Army surgeon.”
“I am pleased we helped her recover £110,000, but we don’t want anyone else to suffer like this. On Valentine’s Day, we urge everyone to be vigilant when chatting online.”
“If you’re in a similar situation, contact the police. Don’t be embarrassed — we can help.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Warns: Stay Sharp Online
Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry added: “It’s vital we look out for each other both online and offline. Fraudsters cause huge damage, especially to vulnerable people. Be aware of the warning signs so you can protect your friends and family.”
How to Spot and Avoid Romance Scams
Don’t let scammers stop you from dating, but stay sharp. Follow these handy tips:
- Ignore friend requests from strangers on Facebook and social media.
- Keep personal details like your full name, birth date, and address off public profiles.
- Never send money or share bank details with anyone you’ve only met online. Stop contact immediately if asked, and report them.
- Stick to reputable dating sites and keep conversations there. Fraudsters try to move chats off-platform to cover their tracks.
To report fraud, call 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.
