Beware of Romance Scams This Valentine's Day in Connecticut

State officials warn residents to be cautious of deceptive tactics used by criminals to steal money and take advantage of victims' vulnerabilities.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection is warning residents about the dangers of romance scams, especially around Valentine's Day. According to the Federal Trade Commission, victims of these scams lose an average of $2,000. Scammers often contact people on dating websites, apps, or social media, build trust over time, and then ask for money to resolve fake financial, travel, or health issues. State officials advise people to be wary of anyone who cannot meet in person and to never send money to someone they have not met face-to-face.

Why it matters

Romance scams can be devastating, as scammers manipulate victims' emotions and trust to steal their life savings. This is a growing problem, with thousands of people falling victim each year. Raising awareness about these deceptive tactics is important to protect consumers, especially around holidays like Valentine's Day when scammers may try to take advantage of people's desire to find love.

The details

Scammers typically contact victims on dating websites, apps, or social media platforms and engage in lengthy text conversations. They will often claim they cannot meet in person due to distance, work, health, or financial issues. When they have a victim's trust, they will ask for money to resolve these supposed problems, such as travel expenses. In one complaint, a victim sent $1,400 via wire transfer and was then asked for an additional $2,570, at which point they realized it was a scam.

  • The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection issued a warning about romance scams this week, ahead of Valentine's Day on February 14, 2026.

The players

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

The state agency that issued the warning about romance scams and provided advice to consumers.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The federal agency that reports victims of romance scams lose an average of $2,000.

Bryan Cafferelli

The Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, who warned that romance scams are devastating and deceitful.

William Tong

The Connecticut Attorney General, who acknowledged dating apps can be a good way to meet people but encouraged vigilance against romance scams.

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What they’re saying

“More often than not, if something feels off, trust your instinct. If you feel uncomfortable sending money to someone you have not met in person yet, no matter how long you've been communicating with them, don't feel pressured to do so. Take a moment, think on it, and ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion.”

— Bryan Cafferelli, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (fox61.com)

“Thousands of people each year lose their life savings to online romance scams. Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. If something doesn't feel right, trust your gut and reach out for help.”

— William Tong, Connecticut Attorney General (fox61.com)

What’s next

Consumers who have been victimized by a romance scam should report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission and file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. They should also report the scammer's profile to the dating or social media app they were using.

The takeaway

Romance scams can have devastating financial and emotional consequences for victims. By being vigilant, trusting their instincts, and never sending money to someone they have not met in person, Connecticut residents can protect themselves from these manipulative and deceptive schemes, especially around holidays like Valentine's Day when scammers may try to take advantage.