Love Bombed: Vicky Pattison Investigates the Dark World of Romance Fraud

It was Valentine's Day at Heathrow Airport when Sarah's world came crashing down. What she thought was a blossoming relationship turned out to be a web of lies and deceit. In the second series of the BBC Local podcast 'Love Bombed', hosted by Vicky Pattison, the heartbreaking reality of romance fraud is exposed.

'Love Bombed: Who is Alex?' delves into the sinister world of romance fraud, shedding light on the increase in scamming tactics that leave victims emotionally shattered and financially drained. Sarah's story serves as a cautionary tale for those who venture into the world of online dating.

Sarah was love-bombed by a man named Alex, whom she believed to be her perfect partner. Little did she know, 'Alex' was nothing more than a digital creation, a 'construct' invented by scammers. The podcast series unravels the devastating consequences Sarah faced after being catfished and defrauded out of thousands of pounds.

Vicky Pattison, the podcast host, expresses her shock and gratitude towards Sarah for sharing her harrowing experience. The new series aims to raise awareness about romance fraud and the insidious tactics employed by fraudsters. Through interviews with Sarah, a former scammer, and experts such as Dr. Elisabeth Carter, the podcast seeks to understand the psychology behind these manipulative schemes.

The aftermath of romance fraud can be excruciatingly long-lasting. Victims not only suffer financial losses but also endure emotional and psychological trauma. Anna Rowe, a survivor of romance fraud and co-founder of the website 'LoveSaid', joins the conversations to challenge the stigma associated with being a victim.

This eye-opening podcast is a testament to the power of storytelling. By sharing Sarah's story and discussing the broader implications of romance fraud, 'Love Bombed' aims to educate and protect individuals from falling prey to these heartless scams.

Chris Burns, Controller of Local Audio Commissioning at BBC Local, praises the podcast for its ability to bring true crime stories to life. 'Love Bombed - Who is Alex?' is a gripping BBC Local production available on BBC Sounds as a box set, starting February 14, 2024. Tune in to unravel the truth behind romance fraud and join the fight against those who exploit love for personal gain.