Beware online Casanovas ahead of Valentine’s Day

Officials with the U.S. Postal Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service want consumers to be aware that with Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, they could be targeted for romance scams.

These scams, deceptive fraud that preys on individuals seeking companionship, often start online but frequently escalate to requests for money or valuables sent through the mail, leading to devastating financial and emotional losses for victims.

“Protecting the sanctity and integrity of the mail is our top priority,” said U.S. Postal Inspection Service Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. “This includes protecting customers from mail-related crimes, including fraudulent schemes like romance scams. Public awareness is critical in stopping these criminals before they cause harm.”

Romance scams

Scammers create fake identities, often using stolen photos and fictitious personal details to cultivate online relationships throughout weeks or months. They then build trust through social media, dating apps or email and pledge their love early on.

Once trust is established, they fabricate urgent financial needs, such as medical emergencies, travel expenses or business problems, to solicit money.

Victims are pressured into sending cash, checks, wire transfers or gift cards, making recovery difficult once the fraud is detected.

Protect yourself

The U.S. Postal Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service offer the following tips:

• Be cautious of online relationships that escalate quickly, especially if the individual avoids in-person meetings or video calls.
• Look for inconsistencies in the person’s profile and information they share.
• Keep your personal information private.
• Never send money, checks, gift cards or personal finance information to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Be suspicious of requests for secrecy or urgent financial help.
• If you think it’s a scam, cut off communication immediately and report it.

Fighting fraud

The U.S. Postal Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are ramping up public outreach efforts to help Americans recognize and avoid mail fraud.

In addition to proactive law enforcement measures, the postal service is spreading awareness through multiple channels:

Social media platforms

• The U.S. Postal Inspection Service regularly shares public service announcements and prevention messaging on several social media platforms.

Mail fraud prevention resources

• Providing updated scam alerts, prevention tips and reporting tools online.

Mailin’ It! podcast

• Postal inspectors share true crime stories of real cases on the official U.S. Postal Service podcast, “Mailin’ It!” These episodes highlight real fraud cases, reinforcing the importance of staying informed and vigilant.

Wanted Wednesdays

• The U.S. Postal Inspection Service has a social media campaign spotlighting wanted criminals involved in postal-related crimes.

Fraud prevention webinars and public events

• U.S. Postal Inspection Service personnel engage with communities through live and virtual events to educate the public about emerging scam tactics.

How to report mail fraud

If you or someone you know is targeted by a romance scam involving the mail, report it online to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Victims should also notify their local law enforcement agency and the Federal Trade Commission.

Click here for more information about romance scams and how to protect yourself and others.