Beware of Romance Scams Ahead of Valentine's Day

Criminals are using fake profiles and emotional appeals to steal money from victims

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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As Valentine's Day approaches, experts are warning about an increase in romance scams. Criminals create fake online profiles and websites to target people's emotions and convince them to send money or share personal information. Red flags include relationships moving too quickly, never meeting in person, requests for money, and being directed to suspicious websites. Advances in artificial intelligence are making these scams even more convincing.

Why it matters

Romance scams can have a devastating emotional and financial impact on victims, especially those who are isolated or have recently experienced a breakup. With the pressure to find the perfect Valentine's Day gift, scammers are taking advantage of people's vulnerabilities.

The details

Scammers often create fake profiles on social media and dating apps, building an emotional connection with victims before asking for money or personal information. They may claim to need money for an emergency or to visit the victim, even though they never actually meet in person. Scammers also use tactics like the "wrong-number text trap" to gain a victim's trust. As artificial intelligence technology advances, scammers are able to create even more convincing fake profiles, photos, and videos.

  • Valentine's Day is just days away on February 14, 2026.
  • Experts say romance scams tend to increase around major holidays and events when people are feeling more emotionally vulnerable.

The players

Jason Meza

Spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau of South Texas.

John Hammon

Principal security researcher with Huntress.

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What they’re saying

“They never meet in person, and they just feel a deep connection online.”

— Jason Meza, Spokesperson, Better Business Bureau of South Texas (kens5.com)

“We're seeing new innovation that can really, really make some pictures, make some videos, make even sound or audio pretty lifelike--super realistic and very convincing. The scammers especially are taking advantage of that because that almost implicitly builds trust.”

— John Hammon, Principal Security Researcher, Huntress (kens5.com)

What’s next

Experts advise consumers to be cautious when meeting new romantic interests online, especially around major holidays. They recommend verifying identities, never sending money to someone you haven't met in person, and reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.

The takeaway

As technology advances, romance scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and difficult to detect. By being aware of the warning signs and taking steps to protect themselves, consumers can avoid falling victim to these emotionally manipulative and financially devastating crimes.