Beware of Valentine's Day Scams Targeting Emotions

Cybercriminals use fake deliveries, deals, and romance to steal money and data this time of year.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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With Valentine's Day approaching, experts warn of a surge in scams targeting people's emotions and desire for love, gifts, and romantic getaways. These include fake delivery notifications, too-good-to-be-true deals, and romance scams where criminals build fake relationships to steal money. Cybersecurity experts advise consumers to be cautious of unexpected links, stick to reputable retailers, and never send money to someone they've only met online.

Why it matters

Valentine's Day scams can result in significant financial and emotional harm, with romance scams alone costing victims millions each year. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, it's crucial for consumers to be aware of these common schemes in order to protect themselves.

The details

Scammers are using a variety of tactics to take advantage of people this Valentine's Day. Delivery and floral phishing scams involve fake messages claiming there's an issue with an order, urging victims to click a link and enter personal information. Fake ads for deep discounts on gifts and getaways are designed to steal credit card data. And romance scams, where criminals build fake online relationships over weeks or months before asking for money, remain one of the most financially devastating schemes.

  • Valentine's Day is on February 14th each year.

The players

Cliff Steinhauer

Director of Information Security and Engagement at the National Cybersecurity Alliance.

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What they’re saying

“These are designed to create urgency. You really can't trust any unexpected message with a link.”

— Cliff Steinhauer, Director of Information Security and Engagement

“Ask to get on a phone call or meet in person. If there are a lot of excuses, that could be because they're not who they say they are.”

— Cliff Steinhauer, Director of Information Security and Engagement

What’s next

Experts advise consumers to report any suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission.

The takeaway

With scammers becoming more sophisticated, it's crucial for people to be vigilant about unexpected messages, deals that seem too good to be true, and anyone they've only met online asking for money. Protecting oneself from Valentine's Day scams requires a healthy dose of skepticism and caution.