Valentines Scams

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Valentines Scams

People go online looking for love or even a friendship and are eager to make connections. Especially given this COVID era, more people are lonely and more people are going online for love and connection and those predators know that.

How can you tell if your new online connection is fake and what can you do if it is? First, be wary of a new relationship with someone who suddenly provides you overwhelming affection; this is what criminals call “grooming.”

Second, check their photos using your web browser or one of the many sites that do an image search. You may find your Romeo’s picture is actually one of a Marine sergeant’s or from a magazine ad. Most importantly, don’t engage with any financial transaction – this is the biggest red flag and the one that can cost you thousands of dollars and great emotional pain.

So beware if the individual seems too perfect or if the person tries to isolate you from your family. Never send money or financial information to someone you haven't met in person. Be careful what you post and make public online.

Remember when you start talking to someone online to take their name and image and start investigating. Hopefully you find nothing but love and true romance instead of someone that wants to steal your heart, so they can steal your money too.

Remember - always watch for scams!

If you believe you have been a victim of this type of scam you should promptly report it to the IC3's website at www.IC3.gov. The IC3's complaint database links complaints together to refer them to the appropriate law enforcement agency for case consideration.

Remember - always watch for scams!