NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, plenty of people are wearing their hearts on their sleeves while seeking genuine relationships, but there are also fraudsters seeking to exploit them, which is why the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky issued a warning about romance scams.
According to the BBB, romance scams usually start on dating platforms with scammers creating fake profiles, often claiming to be in the military or working overseas to justify why they can’t meet in person. Over time, they build trust and emotional connections through messages, photos, and phone calls.
Once the victims are emotionally invested, officials said the scammers will make up a crisis — like a health emergency, family issue, or travel plans to visit — and ask for money. The victims may end up sending funds repeatedly or suddenly losing contact when the scammers vanish.
The BBB shared the following warning signs for romance scams:
- Too good to be true: Scammers often present themselves as highly attractive and financially successful individuals, but if someone seems “perfect,” proceed with caution.
- Quick move to off-site communication: Be wary if someone asks early on to communicate outside the dating platform, like through email or text.
- Rapid relationship progression: Fraudsters frequently profess their love or deep affection quickly.
- Isolation: Scammers often encourage victims to avoid sharing their budding relationship with family or friends.
- Excuses to avoid meeting in person: Common claims used by fraudsters to avoid face-to-face interactions include being stationed abroad, military service, or constant travel.
- Hard luck stories: Before asking for money, scammers may share sob stories about financial struggles, family emergencies, or personal tragedies.
“Romance scams can shatter both hearts and finances,” said Robyn Householder, president and CEO of the BBB of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky. “We encourage everyone to be cautious and informed, especially during this season when emotions run high. Taking a step back and verifying information can make all the difference.”
Here are some tips from the BBB for protecting yourself from potential fraudsters:
- Don’t share personal information or money with someone you haven’t met in person.
- Scammers may struggle to maintain a consistent story, so verify their background by asking specific questions.
- Conduct reverse-image searches on their profile photos through sites like tineye.com or images.google.com. You should also check their name, email, and phone number for any inconsistencies.
- Take your time; avoid making quick decisions; and consult with trusted friends, family, or financial advisors.
If you met someone online recently and they’re already requesting money, the BBB described that as a major red flag. In order to safeguard your heart and your finances, you need to stay cautious and informed.
The BBB urges you to report any suspected fraud by filing a complaint, visiting BBB.org/Scamtracker, and contacting the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by going to reportfraud.ftc.gov or calling 877-FTC-Help.
