Love and technology : romance fraud in the age of artificial intelligence

Abstract

Love has long been revered as a fundamental human need, deeply interwoven with psychological well-being, identity, and social connection. In recent decades, the digital revolution has radically transformed how individuals initiate and sustain romantic relationships, with dating apps, social media, and online platforms offering new avenues for intimacy. While these tools have democratized access to love and broadened relationship possibilities, they have also introduced unprecedented vulnerabilities, chief among them, online romance fraud. This chapter explores the dual nature of technology in romantic contexts, examining both its transformative potential and its darker undercurrents. Particular attention is given to the emergence of romance fraud, a growing form of cybercrime in which perpetrators exploit emotional intimacy for financial gain. The psychological, financial, and social consequences for victims are profound, often leading to trauma, identity disturbance, and long-term relational mistrust. As technology continues to evolve, so too do the methods of deception. The chapter critically examines the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in this context, especially the use of deepfakes and synthetic personas, which has made romance fraud more convincing and scalable. These AI-driven deceptions challenge traditional notions of trust, authenticity, and emotional safety in digital relationships. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the chapter underscores the urgent need for digital literacy, ethical AI development, and cross-sector collaboration to mitigate harm. In an era where love can be artificially manufactured, the chapter calls for a re-evaluation of how we define intimacy, protect emotional integrity, and foster meaningful connection in an increasingly mediated world.