Valentine’s Day has come and went, but the dangers of romance fraud remain.

Cybercrime experts warn online scammers are lurking, ready to exploit hopeful hearts. In 2023, Michigan reported more than 430 victims of romance scams, with losses totaling $14 million. Research shows more than half of Americans under 30 have used dating apps, with 20% finding committed relationships online.

Michigan State University cybercrime expert Tom Holt says fraudsters are often overseas, and will usually start by establishing an emotional connection with their intended victim through chats.

“Once that’s firmly established, they will usually say that they want to come to see you and are planning a visit, and then suddenly there’s some catastrophic event that happens – and it’s at that point that they begin asking for financial assistance,” Holt said.

Holt says if someone online seems to be rushing you into an intimate relationship too quickly, or asking for money, these are major red flags.

Holt adds if you believe you’ve been a fraud victim, police should still be notified. However, you can also contact the Federal Trade Commission or Internet Crime Complaint Center.