5 common online scams you should avoid this Valentine’s Day

scam

• Romance scams peak on dating apps, often asking for money or gifts.
• Fake gift delivery messages and shopping sites steal personal or banking info.
• Valentine's giveaway and impersonation scams aim to harvest data or money.

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Valentine’s Day is meant to be about love, connection, and thoughtful gestures. Unfortunately, it is also one of the busiest times of the year for online scammers. They know emotions are running high, people are spending more freely, and many are eager to trust. From dating apps to fake shopping sites, scams around February 14 are designed to look harmless and romantic but can leave you emotionally and financially drained. Here are five online scams you should be especially careful of as Valentine’s Day approaches.

1. Romance scams

This is the most common and damaging Valentine’s Day scam. It usually starts on dating apps or social media, where someone seems unusually attentive and affectionate very quickly. They may claim to feel a deep connection within days and often avoid meeting in person or video calls. Soon, a problem appears. It could be a medical emergency, a work issue, or money needed to visit you. Once you send money, the requests usually continue or the person vanishes. A simple rule helps here: never send money, gift cards, or crypto to someone you have not met in real life.

2. Fake gift or flower delivery messages

You may receive a text or email saying a surprise Valentine’s gift is waiting for you. To receive it, you are asked to click a link, confirm your address, or pay a small delivery fee. These links often lead to fake pages that steal your personal or banking details. If you did not order a gift or are not expecting one, do not click anything. Real delivery companies do not ask for sensitive information through random messages.

3. Fake online shopping websites

Scammers set up attractive websites selling jewellery, perfumes, watches, or chocolates at huge discounts. These sites look professional and promise guaranteed Valentine’s Day delivery. Once you place an order, either nothing arrives or you receive a cheap imitation. Before buying, check reviews outside the website, look for proper contact details, and avoid stores that only accept prepaid payments with no return policy.

4. Valentine’s giveaway scams

Social media fills up with posts claiming you have won a romantic dinner, holiday, or expensive gift. To claim it, you may be asked to share the post, fill out a form, or pay a small processing fee. These scams are meant to harvest your data or money. If you did not enter a contest, you did not win it. Legitimate brands never ask winners to pay fees.

5. Impersonation scams

Scammers often pretend to be someone you know, a brand, or even a public figure. You might receive a message asking for urgent help, money, or gift cards for a Valentine’s surprise. Always verify by calling the person or checking another platform before sending anything.

A little caution goes a long way. If something feels rushed, secretive, or too good to be true, pause and double-check. Protecting yourself is the best kind of self-love this Valentine’s Day.