Have you been deceived by someone you trusted in a romantic relationship? You’re not alone. Romance scams are on the rise — but there are legal options in Sweden that may allow you to recover your money.
.
What Is a Romance Scam?
A romance scam occurs when someone pretends to be in a romantic relationship with the intent to exploit the other person financially. These scams often begin online and can involve weeks or even months of emotional manipulation. The victim is persuaded to send money or pay for various expenses under false pretenses — promises of love, future plans, or fake emergencies are common tactics.
.
When the money is gone, the scammer usually disappears as well.
.
Can You Get Your Money Back in Sweden?
Yes, it may be possible to recover money lost in a romance scam, depending on the specific circumstances and the available evidence. In Sweden, victims can pursue both criminal and civil legal options.
.
1. If It Constitutes a Criminal Offense
In most cases, romance scams fall under the Swedish Penal Code as fraud (bedrägeri). You can:
.
-
Report the crime to the police,
-
Request damages (skadestånd) as part of the criminal process.
.
If the scammer is identified and prosecuted, you may be awarded financial compensation as part of the court’s judgment.
.
2. Taking Civil Legal Action
If the police decide not to proceed with the case — or if you wish to take action independently — you can file a civil lawsuit with the help of a lawyer.
.
To succeed in civil court in Sweden, you must prove that:
.
-
You were misled or deceived,
-
You transferred money based on that deception,
-
You suffered financial loss,
-
There is sufficient evidence (such as messages, receipts, or witness testimony).
.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
A lawyer experienced in fraud and civil litigation in Sweden can:
.
-
Assess whether you have a valid legal claim,
-
Help you gather and organize the necessary evidence,
-
File a claim with the Swedish district court (tingsrätt),
-
Represent you in court or in settlement negotiations.
.
Having legal counsel can be crucial in navigating the process and increasing your chances of recovering funds.
.
Why Acting Quickly Is Important
Time matters. Acting fast can help you:
.
-
Preserve evidence (such as messages and financial records),
-
Prevent the scammer from moving or hiding assets,
-
Avoid missing statutory deadlines (prescription periods).
.
In Sweden, both criminal and civil claims are subject to time limits, so don’t delay.
.
Summary
Being the victim of a romance scam is emotionally and financially devastating. But if the scam occurred in Sweden, you are not powerless. With the help of a qualified lawyer, you may be able to:
.
-
Sue the scammer,
-
Recover your money,
-
Achieve justice in court or through settlement.
.
If you’ve been deceived in a romantic relationship and lost money, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. It could be the first step toward financial and emotional recovery.
