As Valentine’s Day nears, FBI Philadelphia is reminding members of the public to be cautious of potential romance and confidence fraud scams as criminals look to con those looking for companionship.

Romance scams often begin through dating apps or on social media.

Scammers create fake identities and build relationships over time, gaining trust before creating opportunities or emergencies that prompt requests for money from the person being swindled.

These requests can involve wire transfers, cryptocurrency and gift cards.

“Don’t just follow your heart – trust your gut when seeking companionship online,” FBI Philadelphia Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs said in a recent press release.

“Requests for money, cryptocurrency or your personal information are clear warning signs of a scam, not a legitimate relationship. If you encounter any of these red flags or something doesn’t feel right, end all communication immediately and report the activity to the FBI at ic3.gov.”

If you develop a romantic relationship with someone you meet online:

•Think twice before sharing personal information online. Scammers can use details shared on dating sites and social media platforms to gain the trust of a potential target.

•If trying online dating, only use dating sites with well-known reputations. Search photos and profiles online to see if anyone has used the names, images or information elsewhere.

•Take the relationship slow and ask lots of questions.

•Beware if the person quickly asks you to leave a dating app or social media platform to go “offline” – or tries to isolate you from friends and family.

•It’s a major red flag if the individual promises to meet in person, then always finds an excuse to postpone the meeting.

•Never send money, cryptocurrency or gift cards to anyone only communicated with online or by phone.

If you are the victim of a romance scam, immediately file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.