Looking for love online can be exciting. Whether it’s a dating app, social media or a message that pops up unexpectedly, many people turn to the internet hoping to find a real connection—especially around Valentine’s Day.
Unfortunately, not everyone online is searching for romance. Some people are looking for a payday. Romance scams are one of the most emotionally devastating types of fraud. Scammers don’t rush things. They take their time, build trust and create what feels like a genuine relationship before making a move that can cost victims a lot of money.
The good news? Knowing what to watch for can help you protect your heart and your wallet.
How Romance Scams Work
Fraudsters often start with a friendly message or match. They may seem charming, attentive and genuinely interested in getting to know you. They’ll spend weeks or even months building an emotional connection.
Once trust is established, the story changes. That’s when requests for money begin, often tied to emergencies, travel plans, medical issues or “can’t-miss” investment opportunities. By the time the red flags appear, potential victims may already feel emotionally invested, making it harder to walk away.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Every situation is different, but many romance scams follow familiar patterns. Be cautious if someone you meet online:
Avoids meeting in person.
Says they live or work far away, often overseas.
Asks for money using nonrefundable forms of payment, such as peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps, gift cards or wire transfers.
Pressures you to act quickly or insists on keeping the relationship private.
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Scammers rely on urgency and emotion to cloud judgment.
Ways to Stay Safe Online
Staying safe doesn’t mean giving up on online dating—it just means being smart about it. Here’s what you should do:
Avoid oversharing personal information online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you.
Perform a reverse image search (opens in a new tab) on profile photos.
Be cautious if someone’s story doesn’t add up and do your own research.
Never send money to someone you’ve only communicated with online or by phone.
Do not send intimate photos or financial information that could later be used to extort you.
Taking these steps can help you stay in control while connecting online.
Protect Your Heart and Your Wallet
Looking for love should feel exciting, not overwhelming. One of the best ways to protect yourself from romance scams is simply staying informed. Scammers often rely on silence, embarrassment or confusion—but knowledge puts the power back in your hands.
If something doesn’t feel right, pause, ask questions and reach out for help. Trust your instincts. Your heart and your finances are worth protecting.
We’re here for you. Download our Cybersecurity Awareness Checklist for a step-by-step guide to spotting and stopping fraud, and contact us if you suspect a scam or have questions.