With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the FBI’s Cleveland Division is reminding Ohioans to be cautious when starting relationships online.

Agents say romance scams continue to rise, often beginning with a fake dating or social media profile. Scammers build trust, create emotional connections, and then ask for money, sometimes for a medical emergency, travel expenses, or a sudden crisis. Victims are often asked to send gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

Confidence scams can also involve someone pretending to be a friend or family member in trouble, including the well-known “grandparent” scheme.

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Ohioans lost nearly $18 million in 2024 to romance and confidence fraud.

Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen says scammers prey on vulnerability and often create the illusion of instant chemistry to gain trust quickly.

The FBI urges you never send money to someone you haven’t met in person, and be wary of anyone who asks for financial information or tries to isolate you from family and friends.

Anyone who suspects a scam is encouraged to report it at ic3.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.