With Valentine’s Day approaching, authorities warn of a rising trend in online love scams targeting unsuspecting Filipinos. The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) reports that at least 15 Filipinos fall victim to these scams daily.
The scams, often orchestrated on social media, target individuals looking for love. Scammers use fake profiles and emotional manipulation to gain trust before exploiting victims financially.
CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos attributed the trend to the inherently loving and hardworking nature of Filipinos, making them susceptible to such schemes.
To avoid becoming a victim, the CICC advises vigilance when interacting with people online. Key warning signs include refusal to join video calls, reluctance to share genuine personal information, and sudden requests for money or investment invitations.
The CICC encourages the public to scrutinize social media profiles carefully, avoid rushing into relationships, and never share personal or financial information with online acquaintances.
This reminder comes as scammers intensify efforts during the month of love, capitalizing on people’s loneliness and yearning for connection.
Authorities emphasize that prevention is the best defense against these cybercriminals. Those who suspect they are being targeted are encouraged to report incidents immediately to the proper authorities.
