Hyderabad Police warn citizens against romance scams ahead of Valentine’s Day

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has cautioned citizens to remain vigilant against romance scams, warning that fraudsters are increasingly targeting people through dating apps and social media platforms.

In his post on X, the Commissioner said that while Valentine’s Day is meant to celebrate love, scammers often exploit emotions to cheat unsuspecting individuals. He warned that while people may be looking for companionship online, fraudsters could be eyeing their bank balances.

Highlighting common red flags, Sajjanar noted that scammers often move “too fast and too dramatic”, professing love within a short span of time, narrating stories about overseas jobs, claiming sudden emergencies, or attempting to isolate victims from friends and family. Such tactics, he said, are designed to build trust quickly before making financial demands.

He also advised the public never to send money, cryptocurrency, gift cards or personal information to someone they have not met in person. “Not for a visa issue, not for a medical emergency, and not for a “surprise gift” stuck at customs,” the advisory read.

The Commissioner urged citizens to consult a trusted friend or family member if they are unsure about an online relationship or financial request. Emphasising caution, he remarked that love can wait, but scammers cannot.