Jacksonville, Florida, February 6, 2026
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the FBI’s Jacksonville Division has raised concerns about a significant rise in romance scams targeting local residents. In 2022, over $53 million was lost to these fraudulent schemes, compared to just $13 million in 2017. This increase highlights the vulnerability of individuals seeking love and connection online. The FBI encourages residents to exercise caution, conduct reverse image searches, and avoid scenarios where money is requested before meeting in person. Those who suspect they are victims of these scams should report the incidents to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Jacksonville, Florida
FBI Warns Jacksonville Residents of Rising Romance Scams Ahead of Valentine’s Day
The FBI Jacksonville Division is sounding the alarm about an alarming rise in romance scams targeting residents as Valentine’s Day approaches. These scams have become increasingly prevalent, resulting in Floridians reporting over $53 million lost to such fraudulent schemes in 2022 alone—a staggering increase from $13 million in 2017. With many eager to find love, the potential for exploitation becomes significantly heightened during this time.
Romance scams involve con artists creating fake profiles on dating platforms, social media, or email to engage unsuspecting individuals. These fraudsters typically pose as attractive, successful individuals, often claiming to have military or business backgrounds. Once trust is established, they exploit victims for money under various pretenses, including fabricated emergencies or investment opportunities.
Understanding Romance Scams
As the romantic season draws near, it is crucial for residents to comprehend the mechanics of these scams. Fraudsters often build emotional connections with their victims, claiming reasons for not meeting in person, such as overseas commitments or family obligations. This emotional manipulation can lead individuals to send funds for travel expenses, medical bills, or even dubious investment opportunities.
Key Protective Measures
The FBI has shared several recommendations to help Jacksonville residents avoid falling victim to these scams:
Conduct Reverse Image Searches: Check the authenticity of profile photos by conducting reverse image searches. This can help identify whether the images are being used elsewhere on the internet.
Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal details online, as this information can be used against you.
Take Relationships Slow: Developing a relationship over time with genuine questions is essential. Scammers can reveal their true intentions only after they’ve gained your trust.
Avoid In-Person Meeting Avoidance: Be cautious of individuals who consistently avoid in-person meetings or video calls, as this may be a red flag.
Do Not Send Money: Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you have never met in person, regardless of the reason presented.
Reporting Suspected Scams
If you find yourself suspicious of a potential romance scam, it is vital to cease all communication immediately. Residents should report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov for further investigation and assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are romance scams?
Romance scams involve fraudsters creating fake online profiles to establish romantic relationships and then exploiting victims for money.
How can I protect myself from romance scams?
To protect yourself, the FBI recommends conducting reverse image searches on profile photos, being cautious about sharing personal information online, taking relationships slowly, being wary of individuals who avoid in-person meetings or video calls, and never sending money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you’ve never met in person.
What should I do if I suspect I’ve encountered a romance scam?
If you suspect you’ve encountered a romance scam, cease all communication immediately and report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.
Key Features of Romance Scams
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fake Profiles | Scammers create convincing profiles on dating sites, apps, and social media to form romantic connections. |
| Emotional Manipulation | They often claim they cannot meet in person due to overseas work, travel, or family responsibilities and ask for funds to cover plane tickets, unexpected expenses, or medical emergencies. |
| Investment Scams | Some introduce secretive investment opportunities and pressure victims to send large sums while forbidding discussions with friends or family. |
| Use of AI | Criminals increasingly use generative AI to make scams more believable—producing photos, improving translations, and polishing messages to appear authentic. |
As Jacksonville continues to embrace digital connections amidst economic growth, it is vital for residents to remain aware and vigilant about the types of threats that are prevalent in our community. By fostering a culture of safety and awareness, we can work together to keep our local economy thriving and resilient against such economic threats.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville Officials Warn of Sea and Sky Airshow Scam
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
