Make sure to avoid the worst Valentine’s Day gift ever — romance scams
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — There are plenty of great gifts for Valentine’s Day: bouquets of flowers, boxes of chocolates, oversized stuffed animals — but most people probably don’t want to get the “gift” of getting scammed.
That’s why the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office is warning Utahns to steer clear of romance scams (or confidence fraud) — especially with Valentine’s Day coming up.
The FBI put out the warning as a joint venture with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, offering tips and tricks to recognize and steer clear of these types of scams.
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According to the FBI, romance scams typically occur when someone is convinced they are in a relationship with someone else, but is tricked into sending valuable items, money or personal information to the scammer.
“Criminals create fake profiles, search dating sites, apps, and social media platforms for potential
victims,” U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins said in a joint PSA with FBI Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha.
Higgins and Sinha said the most common targets of romance scams are elderly people and “vulnerable adults.”
Of the scammers, Sinha said, “They work quickly to build trust, only to manipulate victims into sending money or sharing personal information.”
However, the FBI said anyone at any time can be a victim of a romance scam, urging everyone to be wary and keep an eye on warning signs with online relationships.
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The FBI also recommended some tips if someone does decide to engage in an online relationship. First, it suggested users research the photos and profiles to see if the included material has been used somewhere else.
Utahns are reminded to never provide financial information or loan money online to people you don’t know personally, according to the FBI. In addition, the FBI says to watch out for someone who seems “too perfect” or requests inappropriate photos or financial information that can be used to extort you.
If the individual has been promising to meet you in-person for a long time, but hasn’t yet, that could be another red flag, according to the FBI. But, if you do end up meeting someone in person, the FBI warns to make sure you meet in a public place and inform others of your plans.
The FBI urges people to cease contact immediately if they suspect their online relationship is a scam — but if you have already sent money, tell local law enforcement and report the situation to your financial institution.
Victims can also file complaints with the FBI online.
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