Being deceived in a romantic relationship can feel deeply personal and traumatic — but it’s also a legal matter. If you’ve been the victim of romance fraud, you may be entitled to compensation under Swedish law. But what exactly can you claim, and how does the process work?
.
This article outlines the types of damages you may be able to recover and how to proceed with a legal claim in Sweden.
.
.
What Is Romance Fraud?
Romance fraud involves someone pretending to be romantically interested in you — often online — with the goal of gaining your trust and convincing you to send them money. Victims believe the relationship is real and often transfer large sums based on false stories about illness, business troubles, or emergencies.
.
When the truth is revealed, many are left with not only emotional harm but significant financial loss.
.
.
What Types of Compensation Can You Claim Under Swedish Law?
If you report the fraud to the Swedish police and a criminal investigation is initiated (typically classified as fraud under Chapter 9, Section 1 of the Swedish Penal Code), you, as the victim (målsägande), may request damages (skadestånd) as part of the criminal case.
.
Even if no criminal charges are brought, you may still have the option to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator.
.
Here are the most common forms of compensation you can seek in Sweden:
.
1. Economic Damages (Direct Financial Losses)
You may demand repayment of all the money you were tricked into transferring, including:
.
-
Bank transfers
-
Payments for travel, goods, or services
-
Loans you took out on the fraudster’s behalf
.
Documentation is key — you’ll need proof such as bank statements, chat logs, emails, or receipts showing the amounts and reasons for the transfers.
.
2. Non-Economic Damages (Emotional Distress)
In some cases, you may also claim compensation for emotional suffering or personal violation. This is not automatically granted and usually requires:
.
-
Evidence of serious emotional harm (e.g. therapy, psychiatric care)
-
Proof that the fraud was particularly manipulative or ruthless
.
Such damages are harder to win in court but not impossible under Swedish case law.
.
3. Legal Costs
If you pursue compensation through court, you may be eligible to have some of your legal expenses covered through:
.
-
Legal expenses insurance (rättsskydd), which is often included in Swedish home insurance
-
State legal aid (rättshjälp), if you meet the income criteria and cannot use rättsskydd
.
In certain criminal cases, you may also be entitled to a government-funded legal representative (målsägandebiträde).
.
What Steps Should You Take?
To pursue damages after romance fraud in Sweden, you should:
.
-
File a police report as soon as possible
-
Contact a Swedish lawyer to assess your legal options
-
Gather evidence – save messages, bank records, and anything that documents the fraud
-
Be prepared to either join a criminal case or initiate a civil lawsuit if necessary
.
.
Summary: You May Be Entitled to Compensation in Sweden
If you’ve been defrauded in a romantic relationship, Swedish law allows you to seek compensation for both economic and, in some cases, emotional harm. But action is required on your part — including contacting a qualified lawyer, documenting your case, and participating in either criminal or civil legal proceedings.
