During Valentine’s Week, while on one hand people are busy making their relationships special, on the other hand the cases of online romance scams are also increasing rapidly. Amidst the increasing friendship on social media and dating apps, cyber criminals are targeting people by pretending to have emotional connections. Experts have warned that ignoring some signs can prove costly.
Why do cyber frauds increase during Valentine’s Week?
Activity on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Tinder increases during the Valentine season. Taking advantage of this opportunity, cyber thugs create fake profiles and contact people.
These fraudsters first establish friendship, then develop an emotional relationship and finally demand money or personal information. Experts say that it is most important to be cautious and set limits in digital relationships.
If you see these 3 signs, be alert immediately
1. Asking for personal information too quickly
If an unknown person starts asking personal questions as soon as you meet them online or starts showing deep emotional connection within a few days, then be careful. Cyber fraudsters often tell emotional stories to win trust.
The safest approach is to share information slowly and limitedly with your new online identity.
2. Avoiding demand for money or video calls
If an online friend suddenly asks for money under any pretext—such as a medical emergency, ticket booking, or a gift—consider this a serious warning.
Additionally, a person who avoids frequent video calls or face-to-face meetings may be a fake. Use of fake or stock photos may also be a sign of fraud.
3. Creating emotional pressure
Dialogues like “If you love me, help me” or “Decide now” can be a strategy to create mental pressure. Scams use haste and emotional blackmail.
In such a situation, stop the conversation immediately and if necessary, complain on the relevant platform or cyber helpline.
Security is most important in digital relationships
Forming friendships and relationships online is common today, but security and caution cannot be ignored.
- Avoid sharing personal information
- Verify before financial transactions
- Report suspicious behavior immediately
Awareness is the most effective way to prevent cyber fraud. This Valentine’s Week, give priority to safety along with love.
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