UK mobile network operator EE has issued an urgent warning about the dangers of sharing personal details online, particularly when dating. The mobile network provider found that many users are giving away sensitive information too easily, putting themselves at risk of scams and impersonation fraud.
According to EE’s survey of 2,000 UK phone users, an alarming 93% admitted to sharing personal details over text, messaging apps, or social media. A significant number do so while chatting with new acquaintances or online dating. With Valentine’s Day heightening social interactions, EE is urging people to remain cautious.
“Online dating has opened exciting new options for singles, but also a novel channel for criminals hunting for new ways to defraud their victims,” EE stated.
Research shows that one in ten (11%) people currently dating have been targeted by romance scams. Even more concerning, one in five victims lost an average of £2,500 due to these fraudulent schemes.
How people are exposing themselves to scams
According to The Mirror, EE’s findings revealed that 65% of users shared their phone number, 51% disclosed their location and 35% provided access to their social media profile.
Additionally, 345 respondents said they had noticed suspicious behaviour from someone they were messaging, while 15% had been directly asked for money.
The main danger lies in trusting people who may not be who they claim to be. Fraudsters can use personal information to impersonate victims, potentially leading to identity theft and financial loss.
Even non-EE customers should stay alert. Last year, during the Valentine’s period, EE recorded a sharp rise in scam texts. In February 2024 alone, the company blocked 12 million malicious messages—well above the usual monthly average of 8.9 million. The network expects similar activity this year.
“Scammers are experts at preying on the vulnerable,” warns Richard Wainer, EE’s regulatory affairs director. “At this time of year, when social media is full of public displays of affection, it can be tempting to turn a blind eye to the red flags, but spotting them is more important than ever”, Wainer added.
Signs of a romance scam
To help users stay safe, EE has identified key red flags to watch out for when chatting online:
- Asking for money or gifts (64%)
- Using urgent or emotional language (49%)
- Avoiding video calls or in-person meetings (41%)
- Telling a sob story to gain sympathy (31%)
- Giving inconsistent answers (24%)
- Evading personal questions (20%)
- Making grand promises or boasting excessively (12%)
- Asking overly personal questions (11%)
EE urges users to remain cautious when communicating with people they don’t know well, especially when emotions are involved. Scammers often take advantage of trust and vulnerability, making it crucial to recognise the warning signs before it’s too late.
