Relationship scams: How to stay informed and protected as a small business owner

Across Australia, relationship and romance scams remain one of the highest‑loss scam types, with nearly $140 million in reported losses in 2025 alone. Beyond the financial damage, these scams cause deep emotional harm. 

For small businesses already operating under pressure, understanding how these scams work, and how they can spill into business finances, is essential. 

What are relationship scams? 

Relationship scams involve criminals who build trust and emotional connection over weeks, months or even years. Scammers invest time grooming their targets, presenting themselves as romantic partners, close friends or trusted confidants, usually met online through dating apps, social media or messaging platforms. 

Once trust is established, the scammer begins asking for money or financial help. Requests may start small but often escalate quickly into fabricated crises such as medical emergencies, travel problems, blocked accounts or ‘once‑in‑a‑lifetime’ investment opportunities. 

Why small business owners are targets 

Small business owners are often targeted by scammers because they regularly handle money and payments, may have access to business accounts, loans or credit, and are accustomed to making fast decisions under pressure. Long working hours and limited external oversight can further reduce opportunities for others to question unusual requests or spot warning signs early. 

In many cases, the scammer encourages their target to borrow money, sell assets, access superannuation, or move business funds, believing it is temporary or justified by the relationship. 

Some victims are unknowingly drawn into money mule activity, moving funds through business accounts on behalf of the scammer, exposing the business to legal, tax and compliance risks. 

What small business owners can do 

Small business owners should be aware of early warning signs. Warning signs include sudden secrecy about finances or online relationships, pressure to move conversations to private apps, urgent emotionally driven requests for money, instructions to transfer funds quickly or confidentially, and resistance to independent advice.  

Steps you can take to help protect yourself include: 

• Keep personal and business finances separate, with clear approval processes
• Pause before moving money in response to emotional or urgent requests
• Talk openly with trusted advisers, family or business partners
• Question investment opportunities introduced through online relationships
• Encourage a workplace culture where concerns can be raised without shame 

Most importantly, remember that relationship scams are deliberate criminal acts. Anyone can be targeted, regardless of experience, intelligence or business success. 

What to do if you or someone you know is affected 

Help is available at any stage, and it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Losses can sometimes be limited if action is taken early. 

If someone has stolen your identity or you suspect that your identity information may have been wrongfully accessed, we encourage you to contact ID Support NSW who can provide support. 

Visit scamwatch.gov.au for practical guidance on relationship scams, reporting options and support resources. You can also speak confidentially with your bank or your accountant.