New York officials are urging residents to guard their hearts — and their wallets — as Valentine’s Day approaches.
The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection issued a consumer alert warning about romance scams, which led to more than $42 million in reported losses statewide during the first three quarters of 2025, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
Romance scams happen when criminals create fake identities online to spark romantic relationships and then manipulate victims into sending money. Officials say scammers often target older adults, especially widows, widowers, and recent divorcees, but anyone can fall victim.
“So- called ‘romance scams’ exploit people’s emotions and trust, and no New Yorker should have to pay the price, emotionally or financially, for unscrupulous actors,” said New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “As online interactions become more common, especially around Valentine’s Day, it’s critical that consumers know the warning signs used by romance scammers in an effort to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their finances.”
The state outlined several warning signs. Scammers often create fake profiles using stolen photos or deepfake images and videos. They may contact victims unexpectedly and build trust over weeks or months before asking for money.
Officials say scammers frequently claim they cannot meet in person due to emergencies or because they work overseas. They often request small amounts of money at first, then escalate to larger sums for business investments, medical bills, travel, or other supposed emergencies.
Authorities also warned about a growing trend involving fake cryptocurrency investments. In those cases, scammers convince victims to invest through fraudulent websites that appear legitimate but prevent them from withdrawing funds.
The Division of Consumer Protection advises residents to never send money, gift cards, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency to someone they have not met in person. Officials also urge New Yorkers to avoid sharing personal or banking information online and to be cautious if someone asks to move conversations off a dating platform quickly.
The agency recommends scheduling a live video chat early in an online relationship, conducting reverse image searches of profile photos, and researching anyone who raises suspicions. Officials also encourage people to talk to a trusted friend or family member about online interactions instead of keeping them secret.
The Division of Consumer Protection offers voluntary mediation between consumers and businesses and operates a Consumer Assistance Helpline at 1-800-697-1220 on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays. Consumers can also file complaints at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.
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