Heartbreakers On High Alert: Romance Scams Loom Large On Onlyfans And Beyond Before Valentine'S Day

As Valentine's Day draws near, the digital world is buzzing with more than just love – it's a prime time for romance scammers. According to NordVPN, online fraudsters are preparing to take advantage of the seasonal spike in dating app usage, when people are more open to emotional interactions.

NordVPN's senior threat intelligence researcher, Mantas Sabeckis, warns, "What's especially concerning is how criminals strategically prepare in January, knowing millions of people will be looking for connections ahead of Valentine's Day." These scammers aren't just solo operators; they're organized teams, exchanging tactics and setting up accounts to operate at full throttle come February.

While the scams are most rampant at the beginning of the year, they don't disappear entirely. "Activity then spreads out across the rest of the year, but rarely reaches the same level seen at the start of the year," NordVPN noted. The focus is on mainstream social networks and dating apps, with OnlyFans surprisingly prominent due to its paid adult content and potential for impersonation.

Platforms with large audiences and direct messaging features are prime targets. "Snapchat and Instagram are prominently featured because they are commonly used for private chats, content sharing, and moving conversations off dating apps," NordVPN explained. Meanwhile, Facebook, Reddit, YouTube, and TikTok are also in the mix, though slightly less frequently used.

The tactics are complex and multi-stepped, involving stolen or AI-generated photos, scripted conversations, and fake identities. Once trust is built, victims are moved to private messaging services where the real con begins – requests for money, often disguised as emergencies or gift card demands. In some cases, intimate image blackmail, or "sextortion," is used as leverage.

NordVPN warns that these scams result in not just financial losses, but also emotional harm. "People seeking genuine connections are often targeted by scammers who exploit their vulnerabilities," says Marijus Briedis, NordVPN's chief technology officer.

In a recent case, police in Auckland and Dunedin arrested a woman over an 18-year romance scam, spotlighting the lasting impact of these crimes. With romance scams on the rise, especially during this time of year, experts like Tomas Sinicki, managing director of NordProtect, advise caution. "Before committing emotionally or financially, consult a friend or family member who may notice red flags you’ve missed," he suggests. To protect yourself, never send money to someone you've never met in person and be cautious of sudden declarations of love or urgent financial requests.

Australia's National Anti-Scam Centre has also reported a significant increase in romance scam reports and losses, emphasizing the importance of awareness and vigilance in the lead-up to Valentine's Day.