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Scammers Exploit Loneliness in Rising Friendship Fraud

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Older and vulnerable people are increasingly targeted by "friendship fraud," according to TSB.
Scammers exploit loneliness to extract money, often forming long-term relationships with victims.
In one case, a customer in their late sixties made 60 payments over four years to a scammer posing as a young person needing help.
Another victim, in their late seventies, lost over £4,000 after being manipulated into sending money for medical bills.

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Story summary

Older and vulnerable people are increasingly targeted by "friendship fraud," according to TSB.
Scammers exploit loneliness to extract money, often forming long-term relationships with victims.
In one case, a customer in their late sixties made 60 payments over four years to a scammer posing as a young person needing help.
Another victim, in their late seventies, lost over £4,000 after being manipulated into sending money for medical bills.