Romance scams hit overdrive this Valentine’s week, warns Fraud Prevention Service

A lot of people fall for all the money spending apparently required for Valentine's Day, but this "time of love" is not exploited only by commercial outfits - remember that online scammers are also going to take advantage of it.

The Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) has issued a warning that romance scams spike during this period, with the criminals using increasingly sophisticated, tech‑driven tactics to deceive their victims.

RELATED: Tips to protect your bank account (and your feelings) from romance scammers

Wendy Knowler describes this type of fraudster as someone who specialises in socially engineering targets to believe they're having a genuine relationship - online, but with perpetual promises of getting together for real.

Always approach new online connections with caution, warns the SAFPS:

"Criminals use fake profiles to build emotional connections and exploit trust."

As SAFPS CEO Manie van Schalkwyk points out, romance scams are psychological warfare.

WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Limit what you share online: Insights into your life gives scammers information about you that could be used to scam you.
• Be sceptical: Verify any unexpected friend, follow, or messaging request.
• Do not share personal or confidential information with someone you don't know, especially via messaging platforms.

• Don't transfer money: Do not simply agree to pay anyone money or participate in a 'great opportunity or initiative'.
  
  

The SAFPS urges people to report it immediately if they've been scammed to the relevant organisation, platform and/ or authorities.

You can also use the Yima reporting function online, or phone the scams hotline at 083 123 7226.

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