The IRS Criminal Investigations is warning the public of increased romance scams amid Valentine’s Day.  

According to the government entity, romance scammers prey on victims’ vulnerabilities, creating fake online accounts on social media or dating platforms. Fake accounts will try to build false emotional attachments until a potential victim sends them money.  

IRS-CI warns the public that scammers may research a victim through open-source information found online and try to establish a quick relationship to gain the victim’s trust.  

Romance scams are common throughout the country, where the scammers use complex techniques to create fake photos, videos and documents.  

“Scammers build trust, then claim to need money. They promise to pay back money, but never do,” IRS-CI officials said in a press release.  

To avoid romance scams, officials suggest individuals never send money to anyone they have only communicated with online or by phone, and be careful about what social media posts are made public.  

The entity further warns individuals to be suspicious if someone promises to meet in person but never does, and to never share inappropriate photos or financial information that could later be used for extortion.  

“Romance scams are common, and scammers work hard to get your money. Be wary of those you meet online,” officials said.