7 Common Valentine’s Day Scams To Watch Out For

An online safety expert shares advice to help you avoid heartbreak and financial loss this Cupid’s Day.
courtesy of VPN Pro

Whether you’re navigating online dating apps, sending gifts to loved ones, or planning a romantic getaway, Valentine’s Day fraudsters are lurking in every corner of the digital world, ready to take advantage of your loving side.

“Valentine’s Day is unique because it allows scammers to combine heightened emotions with romantic purchases, creating a perfect storm for scams,” explains Richard D, online safety expert at VPN Pro. “They know that people are more trusting and emotionally invested during this time, which makes their schemes harder to detect.”

From fake flower deliveries to phishing scams, con artists are getting more sophisticated, and their tactics are evolving. Read on as Richard reveals the seven most common scams this Cupid’s Day and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Fake Flower and Gift Delivery Scams

How it works: Fraudsters create fake websites advertising discounted flowers, chocolates or gifts. After you’ve parted with your money, the items are never delivered, or the scammers collect personal and payment information for fraudulent use.

Red flags:

  • Suspiciously low prices that seem too good to be true
  • Poor website design, lack of customer reviews, or minimal contact details
  • Payment methods like direct bank transfers or cryptocurrency

Richard’s tip: “Stick to well-known retailers with verified reviews, and use secure payment methods like credit cards, which offer better fraud protection.”

2. Fake Dating Profiles

How it works: Fake dating profiles are another common scam. Fraudsters set up highly convincing but fake profiles on dating apps or social media, often stealing photos and details from real people. They use these profiles to gain the trust of victims, manipulate emotions, and sometimes extract sensitive information or money.

Red flags:

  • Their profile seems too perfect
  • Excuses for avoiding video calls or meeting up face-to-face
  • Pushing for your phone number/WhatsApp/Telegram too early

Richard’s tip: “If they seem too good to be true, I suggest using reverse image search tools to verify profile photos. You should also be cautious about sharing personal details with someone you’ve only just met online.”

3. Travel Scam Alert for Couples

How it works: Scammers take advantage of couples planning romantic getaways by creating fake travel agency websites, offering discounted packages, or advertising deals for luxury accommodations. Once payment is made, the tickets or bookings either don’t exist or are canceled last minute with no refund.

Red flags:

  • Deals that are significantly cheaper than those on well-known travel websites
  • No physical address or verifiable contact details for the travel agency
  • Requests for payment via wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrencies

Richard’s tip: “Always research the travel agency before booking. Check reviews on third-party platforms and make sure the company has a verified history. Stick to reputable travel booking sites or work with trusted travel agents to avoid losing your money and vacation plans.”

4. Phishing Scams

How it works: Fraudsters disguise themselves as trusted companies (sometimes even your favorite dating site) to steal personal information. Emails or messages urge users to click on malicious links to ‘confirm account details’ or ‘redeem gift cards.’

Red flags:

  • Use of urgent language like “Act now or lose access!”
  • Typos, suspicious links, or unfamiliar email addresses
  • Requests for sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details

Richard’s tip: “Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages. Visit the company’s official website instead.”

5. Cryptocurrency Investment Scams

How it works: Scammers pose as romantic interests and introduce ‘exciting’ cryptocurrency courses or investments. They promote obscure platforms and urge victims to move conversations to encrypted apps like Telegram.

Red flags:

  • They bring up investment opportunities early in the relationship
  • Platforms that lack transparency or legitimate reviews
  • Pressure to act quickly before an “opportunity” expires

Richard’s tip: “Never combine love with financial investments. They always end in a deficit. Research any platform thoroughly and consult a financial expert before you even think of investing.”

6. Fake Jewelry Offers

How it works: Fraudsters advertise high-end jewelry at unbeatable discounts, delivering counterfeit items (or nothing at all) after payment.

Red flags:

  • Social media-only retailers
  • No refund or return policies
  • Offers that seem significantly cheaper than market value

Richard’s tip: “Purchase jewelry only from reputable retailers with a strong online presence and verified customer reviews.”

7. E-Gift Card Scams

How it works: Emails or social media posts claim you’ve received a Valentine’s Day gift card, sounds great, right? Next thing you know, you’re being directed to a fake site to ‘redeem’ it by providing your personal and financial details.

Red flags:

  • Emails with spelling or grammar errors
  • Websites with unclear branding or inconsistent design
  • A sense of urgency to redeem the card quickly

Richard’s tip: “These are probably the easiest scam to avoid but you’d be surprised by the amount of people still falling for them! Verify gift cards directly with the retailer and avoid clicking on unsolicited links.”

Richard D, Online Safety Expert at VPN Pro comments:

“Valentine’s Day is right next to Christmas in terms of favorite holidays for scammers because it offers a unique opportunity to manipulate emotions and exploit trust. The combination of love, generosity, and urgency makes people more vulnerable to deceptive tactics, whether it’s fake flower delivery sites, phishing emails, or overly perfect dating profiles.”

“The key to staying safe is vigilance. Double-check websites before making purchases, avoid unsolicited links and take time to verify the identity of people you meet online. It’s not just about protecting your wallet; it’s about safeguarding your personal information and emotional well-being.”

“Using tools like VPNs, reverse image searches, and secure payment methods helps you stay one step ahead of loveless scammers. Remember, genuine connections are built on trust and transparency, not pressure or manipulation. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a loved one or seeking new connections, keep your guard up and always trust your instincts.”

Reviewed January 2025

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