Attorney General Warns of Romance Scams on Valentine’s Day

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul warns residents about the risks of online romance scams ahead of Valentine’s Day, urging vigilance and offering prevention tips. Scammers often use fake profiles or impersonate celebrities to initiate contact, targeting victims through social media or dating platforms. Raoul advises those looking for love to communicate solely through official channels until trust is established, cautioning against sharing information or photos. Additionally, he warns against downloading attachments or clicking links from unknown sources, as they may contain malware. The Attorney General also emphasizes the importance of never sharing financial information or sending money to someone met online, and suggests informing a trusted friend or family member about online relationships. Victims are urged to save all communications, block the individual, and notify authorities. You can also report scams through the Attorney General’s website.