Love isn’t just about romantic gestures and heart-shaped chocolates—it’s also a favorite theme for scammers looking to steal your money. While people are busy planning surprise gifts and thoughtful dates, fraudsters are working overtime to lure victims into their latest schemes. From AI-powered romance scams that are more convincing than ever to online shopping traps that look real, scammers are constantly upgrading. Whether you're looking for love, shopping for a special gift, or just minding your own business online, it's important to be aware. Here are some of the latest scams making the rounds—and how to avoid them.
Think you can always spot a scam? With AI technology, fraudsters are making it harder. A leaked video shows how scammers are using AI for real-time face-swapping to trick people into believing they’re talking to someone genuine. These scammers clone voices, create convincing love stories, and before you know it, you’re emotionally invested—and possibly out of cash. If your new online connection seems too perfect, asks for money, or avoids meeting in person, you might be dealing with a high-tech impersonator.
A website promising stunning gifts at unbelievable prices might sound tempting, but a closer look at Lovefloraco.com raises red flags. It claims to have been around for years, but its domain history says otherwise. The site pressures shoppers with countdown timers, and while the reviews seem glowing, real customer feedback tells a different story—missing orders and no way to get a refund. If a deal feels rushed or the seller’s history is unclear, it’s worth reconsidering before clicking "buy now."
An offer circulating on Meta platforms claims Tesco is looking for “testers” to try an air frying grill, and you can keep it for just £2. Sounds like a steal? That’s because it is—but not for you. Clicking on the provided link takes you to a site that asks a few harmless-sounding questions—before trying to harvest your personal and financial details. If you see this ad, report it immediately by clicking the three dots in the top-right corner and selecting ‘report.’
If you’ve been selling items on Facebook Marketplace, beware of messages claiming your post has been “flagged for review.” These scam messages provide a link to ‘update or edit your post’ and warn that your account could be restricted. But the only thing that will be restricted is your bank balance if you fall for it—because the link leads to a phishing site designed to steal your personal data. To report a scam group, page, or profile on Facebook, click the three dots on the right-hand side and select ‘report.’
Scammers are upping the tempo, using technology and psychological tricks to make their schemes more convincing. Whether it’s AI-powered romance scams, fake online stores, or phishing links disguised as urgent notifications, staying informed is your best defense. Before trusting a deal, clicking a link, or believing an emotional story, take a step back and verify. A little caution now can save you from a big headache later.
