Love at first message? Pause Before You Trust
Online connections can spark quickly. A thoughtful message, daily check-ins, shared interests—it can feel exciting, flattering, and even meaningful. But during February, and especially around Valentine’s Day, scammers take advantage of those emotions.
Romance scams are one of the fastest-growing types of fraud, and they work because they don’t start with money, they start with feelings.
How They Begin
Romance scammers often reach out through dating apps, social media, or even text messages. They may seem attentive, charming, and emotionally available right away. Many will:
- Message frequently and intensely early on
- Share personal stories to build trust
- Avoid video calls or in-person meetings
- Claim to live far away or be temporarily overseas
Red Flags
Once trust is established, the conversation often shifts. A sudden emergency. A business opportunity. A problem that only you can help solve.
Common requests include:
- Sending money or wire transfers
- Purchasing gift cards or cryptocurrency
- Receiving or moving money on their behalf
How to Protect Yourself
- Take your time getting to know someone online
- Be cautious if someone avoids meeting or video chatting
- Never send money, gift cards, or financial information to someone you haven’t met
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is
And if you’re unsure, pause and reach out. A second opinion can make all the difference.
How We Can Help
Protecting your finances also means protecting your peace of mind. If you believe you may be experiencing a romance scam, or if something doesn’t feel right, contact us right away. We’re here to help you navigate situations like these with care and confidence.
If you believe you have been victimized by identity theft, report the incident immediately by calling the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Hotline:
Toll-Free: 1-877-IDTHEFT
TDD: 202-326-2502
Online at https://www.identitytheft.gov/
Also, call us at 1-888-8CAPFED to report any unusual activity related to your accounts.