The Canadian government warns tourists traveling to Ireland in romantic scams

Canadian tourists have been warned of travel to Ireland in search of love in a new government statement.

Holiday carriers were urged to be careful if they fly to Ireland to find love, if they are cats.

The tips, issued on the website of the Government of Canada, also presented a segment about small crimes and pickpocketing, emphasizing tourists to remain vigilant on the Irish streets.

“If you travel to Ireland to meet someone you have met online, you may be the victim of a scam.” the statement started.

“Be aware of the deception attempts of the people who declare you the romantic or friendly interest for you.”

It also warns: “There are small crimes, such as pickpocketing and snatching the purse. Tourists are frequently targeted.

“The groups organized by thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active in the following locations; In tourist places and attractions, in hotels, restaurants and bars, in public transport, in airports and train stations. “

The Canadian advice adds: “Do not keep the passport and other identity documents in the same place and wear a photocopy rather than the original.

“Avoid showing signs of wealth or wearing expensive jewelry; Avoid carrying large amounts of money or unnecessary valuables.

“Avoid deserted streets at night. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and tourist areas and when you withdraw money from ATMs. ‘

The warning follows news last week, of a man who lost 200,000 pounds (240,000 euros) in a romantic scam he said “almost destroyed my life.”

The northern Ireland man, not called, was targeted in a fraud over two years of 2020 and 2022, after meeting someone on a website.

Last year, A few 127 romantic scams were reported to the Northern Ireland police service. Individual losses have ranged from several hundred to thousands of pounds.