Majority of Online Daters Demand Stronger Scam Prevention Measures

A new report from Barclays Scams Bulletin highlights growing consumer concerns about romance scams on dating platforms. According to the 2025 report, 76% of surveyed users want tech companies to take stronger action to prevent scammers from accessing dating apps. The findings come as online dating marks its 30th anniversary, raising broader questions about how the industry will address user safety in the future.

Romance scams have become a significant issue, with Barclays reporting a 20% year-on-year rise in cases during the first quarter of 2025. The emotional and financial impacts are severe: victims lost an average of £8,000 (around $10,600), with losses climbing to £19,000 (approximately $25,300) among users over 61. In the U.S., the Federal Trade Commission recorded $1.14 billion in romance scam losses in 2023.

The damage often extends beyond finances. Thirty-seven percent of scam victims said they were so affected that they quit dating apps entirely. Kirsty Adams, a Fraud and Scams Expert at Barclays, emphasized the need for greater platform accountability, stating, “Falling for a romance scam can be both financially and emotionally devastating. We need tech companies to step up their support and take greater action to prevent scammers from operating on their platforms.”

The report also notes recurring patterns among scammers, with many pressing for money within a month of initial contact, often citing fabricated emergencies, visa issues, or medical expenses.

While initiatives like the Tech Against Scams coalition signal progress, the Barclays Scams Bulletin makes it clear that consumers expect more robust measures to be put in place — and soon. Whether the industry can meet these expectations over the next 30 years remains an open question.