The police are warning residents to be careful online and not be victims of fraud.

The warning from police comes as they became aware of an individual being targeted by a ’romance fraudster’, fortunately the attempt was unsuccessful.

Police say romance fraud is: ’Where individuals are targeted; often via internet dating sites, and groomed by the fraudster to a point where the victim develops feelings towards the persona adopted by the offender before being asked for money or having their identity stolen.

’The offender will use stolen identities, fake profiles and images; often of real individuals that are readily available on the internet.’

Police say the intended victim, a middle age single lady is a typical target for this type of crime, though stress men also must be diligent.

They advise that fraudsters will often use the same profile for several victims and often, a google search on names, email addresses or phone numbers will often reveal that the profile is indeed fake.

’Sometimes the offender will offer to exchange photographs, often compromising in nature that they will use to blackmail the victim into handing over money.

’Fraudsters will ask a lot of personal questions about you but may seem reluctant to provide information about themselves.’

To stay safe online, the police advice that people avoid revealing too many personal details such as your full name, date of birth or address online as this could lead to your identity being stolen.

These types of crime often originate on dating apps or websites, police say it is better to stay on these sites and use the messaging services available rather than switching to social media or texting which can be harder to trace.

The police said: ’The vast majority of people who use internet dating sites are genuine people however if you fear that you may be the victim of such a fraud or have concerns for a friend or relative please contact the Isle of Man Constabulary for assistance in the first instance and also report to Action Fraud.’

DC Will Biltcliffe of the island’s Financial Crime Unit explained that Action Fraud is the UK national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, providing a base for information about fraud and cybercrime.

The service collects information on fraudulent activities and dispersed to the relevant law enforcement agencies.

He advises anyone who thinks they may be a victim or believe it may be happening to them or someone else to contact Isle of Man police or if someone wishes not to report it in person, visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.