Tips from the Better Business Bureau on How to Steer Clear of Valentine’s Day Scams
According to the National Retail Federation, this Valentine’s Day is expected to be quite significant, with consumer spending estimated to hit almost $26 billion.
As you get ready for this celebration, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against some frequent scams. Whether you’re initiating a new romance or shopping for gifts for those close to you, keep an eye out for these three scams commonly reported to the BBB.
Fake Websites
Be cautious of fake websites, which can range from imitation jewelry stores to fraudulent dating platforms. Scammers often copy genuine photos, promotional offers, and branding from established jewelry businesses. They create convincing websites with professional designs and irresistible prices, closely mimicking the legitimate ones.
Warning signs:
• Items priced at steep discounts.
• Sellers ask for payments through cash apps or cryptocurrencies.
• Their customer service is unresponsive.
Romance Scams
Similar tactics are employed in deceptive online dating services, which are designed to harvest personal information and credit card details. Romance scammers often target individuals who are feeling vulnerable due to recent breakups or difficult situations. They exploit this emotional turmoil to create a bond and elicit sympathy. Once they have the person invested with an emotional story, they shift their focus to financial gain.
Being a victim of a romance scam can be particularly traumatic. Victims can lose a significant amount of money and may feel deceived and heartbroken, believing they have found a genuine partner. To learn more about romance scams, check out safer online dating guidelines.
Warning signs:
• The relationship escalates quickly.
• In-person meetings never occur.
• They request financial help.
Wrong Number Scams
Responding to a message from someone who has the wrong number can seem harmless, and might even feel like a courteous response if they’re claiming to want to reconnect with someone.
However, this text is often bait to engage you in a conversation. If you continue to respond, they may eventually attempt to persuade you to sign up for an adult subscription site by asking for your personal details.
Warning signs:
• Messages keep coming after your initial reply.
• The sender prompts you to register on a website.
• They try to collect your personal information.
Fraudulent Florist Scams
Planning to send flowers this Valentine’s Day? Don’t delay your order or you could fall prey to a scam. The BBB has heard from numerous shoppers who thought they were purchasing flowers from a trustworthy online florist, only to receive nothing at all or a poorly arranged bouquet. Protect your Valentine’s Day from shady florists.
Warning signs:
• The business has no reviews, or only negative ones (always verify at BBB.org!).
• There’s no clear return policy or satisfaction guarantee.
• The offer seems “too good to be true.”
If You Encounter a Scam
Should you suspect you’re dealing with a romance scam, immediately stop all communication with the offender by blocking their accounts and phone numbers. Next, report your experience at BBB.org/ScamTracker. Users of dating platforms should also alert the site about any suspicious behavior to enable them to take action against the scammer.
Jan Diaz is the President/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, covering 23 counties. For assistance, contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.
