FBI Issues Valentine's Day Warning as Romance Scams Cost Americans Hundreds of Millions

Record-Breaking Financial Devastation

As Valentine's Day approaches, federal authorities are sounding urgent alarms about a criminal enterprise that has reached unprecedented levels of financial devastation. Over 17,000 complaints were lodged for romance scams in 2024, costing Americans at least $672,009,052 , according to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. The staggering losses represent more than just numbers—they reflect shattered trust and financial ruin for thousands of victims seeking genuine connection.

Texans lost $57,144,194 to romance & confidence scams in 2024 , while regional data reveals the scope of this epidemic across America. In Virginia alone, more than 200 romance scam complaints were filed last year, with reported losses totaling $20,259,599 , and actual losses were likely higher due to underreporting .

The emotional toll extends far beyond bank accounts. One man said a scammer, posing as a man in Texas, manipulated his wife, costing their family thousands of dollars. For Rob, those words carry the weight of five months that nearly cost him his marriage and his family's financial future .

Sophisticated Criminal Operations

Today's romance scammers operate with disturbing sophistication, exploiting both technology and human psychology. The FBI's Boston and Jacksonville, Florida, divisions also cited millions in regional losses reported in 2025 and highlighted scammers' growing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create convincing profiles and media . The romance scams have also become more complex and are no longer sloppy or obvious .

The FBI said criminals behind romance scams tend to try to establish a relationship quickly by overwhelming someone with intense affection and attention first. Some may even propose marriage and make plans to meet in person --- but only to ask for money . Romance scammers also try to avoid meeting in person by coming up with various excuses or claiming they live or work in other parts of the world or country .

A particularly devastating variant involves investment fraud. In one specific type of relationship investment scheme, known as "pig butchering," scammers begin by using fake profiles, images, videos and voices to target victims on social media, dating apps, or through text. After establishing frequent contact, they claim to have earned large profits through trading cryptocurrency, precious metals or foreign currency and offer to help the victim do the same .

Critical Warning Signs

Law enforcement officials emphasize that recognizing red flags early can prevent financial catastrophe. The FBI offered the tips to avoid becoming a romance scam victim: Research the person's photo and profile using online searches to see if the image, name, or details have been used elsewhere. Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to go "offline."

Requests for money, cryptocurrency, or your personal information are clear warning signs of a scam, not a legitimate relationship . to go slow. Never share personal financial information or send money, crypto or giftcards. Once it's gone, there's almost no recourse .

"Fraudsters are lurking online claiming to be looking for love when they're really just looking to loot your bank account. The best weapon against these scammers is a healthy dose of skepticism" , warned Ted E. Docks, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Division.

Fighting Back Against Digital Predators

The FBI's coordinated warning across multiple field offices signals the urgency of this threat as millions seek companionship online. "The FBI recognizes that this crime is often perceived as embarrassing or difficult to report due to the intense, personal nature of the scam" , but reporting remains crucial for both recovery efforts and preventing future victims.

The FBI urged anyone who suspects an online relationship is a scam to stop all contact immediately and file a complaint at the IC3 and to quickly notify their financial institution if money was sent . As artificial intelligence makes these scams increasingly convincing, the human element of skepticism and verification becomes our strongest defense against those who exploit our most fundamental desire for connection and love.