Nationwide has 16 million customers across the UK. And they have warned anyone sending money that they may need to stop. On its website, it warns people to never « let money come into your online relationship. This includes sending and accepting money ».
Addressing the issue of romance scams, it warns that although you may not think it, they are a « huge problem for online dating ». In fact, « according to the UK Finance’s Half Year Fraud report, a total of £20.5 million was lost to romance scams between January and June 2025. This is an increase of 35% when compared with the same period in 2024 ».
Because of this, Nationwide urge people never to transfer money – even if they claim it’s for « medical fees for a sick parent to travel money to come visit you ». Stressing that « these are lies », they remind people that « they are not who they say they are ».
The building society said it is something that millions could easily fall for, as it does not happen straight away. Instead, « over time, scammers build online relationships based on trust and do what they can to make people think this is the real thing. Eventually, they start asking for money. And they use emotional manipulation and exploitation to lure people in ».
Be wary of how they talk to you: Scammers often use scripts and work on multiple victims at a time. They avoid using your name and instead use general terms like honey, babe or angel. There may also be inconsistencies in their stories. It’s ok to be suspicious.
Never invest your own money on their behalf or on their advice: Scammers may try to persuade you to invest. They’ll try to convince you it’s easy, or guarantee high returns. Don’t be fooled.
Don’t forget about our Scam Checker Service: If you’re ever unsure about a payment you’re making from your Nationwide current account, you can call Nationwide or visit a branch, and they can tell you whether they think it’s a scam. Check out Nationwide’s Scam Checker Service.
