USPS, UPS Warn Public About Rising Romance Scams Ahead of Valentine's Day

As Valentine's Day approaches, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) are raising awareness about romance scams, which often begin online and lead to significant financial and emotional losses for victims. Scammers create fake identities, build trust through social media or dating apps, and then fabricate urgent financial needs to solicit money from unsuspecting individuals. Officials warn that victims are pressured into sending cash, checks, or gift cards, making recovery challenging once the fraud is detected. To protect themselves, consumers are advised to be cautious of quickly escalating online relationships, look for inconsistencies in profiles, and never send money to someone they haven't met in person. The USPS and USPIS are enhancing outreach through social media and public service announcements to educate the public on recognizing and avoiding these scams. Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale emphasizes the importance of public awareness in preventing these fraudulent schemes.