Watch out: your online romance could be a scam
VALENTINE'S DAY
With Valentine’s Day approaching, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service want consumers to be aware they may be targeted for romance scams, a deceptive form of fraud that preys on individuals seeking companionship. These scams often start online but frequently escalate to requests for money or valuables sent through the mail, leading to devasting financial and emotional losses for victims. “Protecting the sanctity and integrity of the mail is our top priority,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. “This includes protecting customers from mail-related crimes, including fraudulent schemes like romance scams. Public awareness is critical in stopping these criminals before they cause harm.”
How Romance Scams Work
Scammers create fake identities, often using stolen photos and fictitious personal details. They cultivate online relationships over weeks or months, building trust through social media, dating apps, or email, and pledge their love early on.
Once trust is established, they fabricate urgent financial needs—such as medical emergencies, travel expenses, or business problems—to solicit money.
Victims are pressured into sending cash, checks, wire transfers, or gift cards, making recovery difficult once the fraud is detected.
How to Protect Yourself
• Be cautious of online relationships that escalate quickly, especially if the individual avoids in-person meetings or video calls.
• Look for inconsistencies in the person’s profile and the information they share. Keep your personal information private.
• Never send money, checks, gift cards, or personal finance information to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Be suspicious of requests for secrecy or urgent financial help.
• If you think it’s a scam, cut off communication immediately and report it.
—United States Postal Service
