The IRS Criminal Investigations division is warning the public about increased romance scams ahead of 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 using publicly available online information and attempt to establish a quick relationship to gain the victim’s trust.  

Romance scams are common nationwide, with scammers using sophisticated 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 advise individuals never to send money to anyone they have only communicated with online or by phone, and to be careful about what social media posts they make public.  

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

According to another recent IRS warning, a growing number of fraudulent tax schemes are circulating on social media, promoting the misuse of tax credits and deductions for which most taxpayers are not eligible. These scams led to thousands of taxpayers filing inaccurate or frivolous returns last year, often resulting in steep fines, including a $5,000 civil penalty. Since 2022, the IRS has imposed more than 32,000 penalties totaling more than $162 million, according to a press release.