Romance scams spike in January—how to protect your parents and grandparents from online dating fraud

Romance scams targeting older people spike in January, and your parents or grandparents could be at risk. From catfishing to emotional manipulation, here’s how to spot the red flags early—and the expert advice families should share before it’s too late.

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Published: January 5, 2026 at 10:42 AM

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As the New Year begins, experts are warning families to be extra vigilant, particularly when it comes to parents and grandparents trying online dating this January.

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Loneliness often peaks after Christmas, and scammers know it. With more older adults turning to dating apps and websites for companionship, fraudsters are increasingly targeting seniors who may be less familiar with online risks.

Experts say January is one of the busiest months for romance scams, with criminals using emotional manipulation to gain trust, money and personal information. For families, this is the moment to have an open, supportive conversation and share the warning signs.

James Rodgers, Head of Dating at senior dating site Senior Lovers, has shared key safety advice for older adults navigating online dating in 2026, and for the loved ones looking out for them.

Online dating risks for older adults

Online dating can be a brilliant way for seniors to meet new people, but it also comes with risks. Older users are often targeted because scammers assume they are more trusting, emotionally vulnerable or financially stable.

These scams can involve fake profiles, emotional manipulation, requests for money, identity theft and in some cases stalking or abuse. Knowing the red flags early can help prevent emotional and financial harm.

1. Make sure you know who they really are

One of the most common tactics used by scammers is catfishing, where someone pretends to be someone they are not. While not everyone online is fake, experts say caution is essential.

Warning signs include dating profiles with very little information, only one or two photos, or images that look low quality or too polished. Rodgers advises verifying identities early on.

Video calls are a simple way to check someone is real. If a person repeatedly refuses to video call or avoids showing their face, this should raise alarm bells. Asking for a short video saying something specific can also help confirm authenticity.

2. Set boundaries and avoid oversharing

Even after verifying who someone is, seniors should still be careful about what they share. Scammers often build emotional connections quickly to gain trust.

Personal information such as home addresses, bank details, family routines and passwords should never be shared. Rodgers also warns against sending money or explicit images, and says any photos shared should be checked carefully for visible personal details in the background.

If someone pressures, guilt-trips or becomes angry when boundaries are upheld, that behaviour alone is a red flag. Blocking and reporting accounts is always an option.

3. Meeting in person should always feel safe

If an online connection progresses to a face-to-face meeting, safety should come first. First dates should always be in public places such as cafés, restaurants, busy parks or shopping centres.

Anyone pushing to meet at home, in private, or late at night should be treated with caution. Families can help by encouraging daytime plans and reminding loved ones that there is no rush.

It is also important to tell someone trusted about the date, including who they are meeting, where and when. Sharing screenshots of profiles or even location sharing can add an extra layer of reassurance.

4. Protect emotional well-being too

Dating later in life can bring up complex emotions, especially after bereavement or long-term relationships. Experts stress that emotional safety matters just as much as physical safety.

Rodgers encourages seniors to take things at their own pace, avoid rushing into relationships and keep expectations realistic. Clear communication about what both people are looking for can help avoid misunderstandings and disappointment.

5. Red flags families should talk about

There are several warning signs that often appear in romance scams targeting seniors.

These include declaring love very quickly, asking overly personal questions, insisting on secrecy, requesting financial help, or knowing information that was never shared.

Controlling behaviour, obsessive messaging, unexplained anger or stories that do not add up are also serious concerns. Vague answers or avoiding questions about their life may suggest a fake identity.

Expert advice for seniors dating online

James Rodgers, Head of Dating at Senior Lovers, said, “Online dating should be both safe and enjoyable for seniors looking to find companionship, especially during the festive season."

While it’s important to stay cautious by verifying identities, setting boundaries, and meeting in public, dating should be a fun experience filled with meaningful connections.

James Rodgers, Head of Dating at Senior Lovers

“Approach it with an open mind, realistic expectations, and clear communication about what you want. Engaging in shared activities, enjoying light-hearted conversations, and taking things at your own pace can make the process exciting rather than stressful. With the right precautions outlined here and a positive mindset, online dating can be a safe, fulfilling journey to new friendships and love.”

For families, sharing this advice could make all the difference this January. A gentle conversation now may help protect the people you love most from falling victim to romance scams when they are simply looking for connection.

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Authors

Ruairidh PritchardDigital Growth Lead

Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.

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