How to Spot and Avoid Romance Scams
February is a month filled with love, connection, and new relationships. Unfortunately, it’s also a peak season for romance scams. Also known as “love scams,” these fraud schemes prey on trust and emotional connection, often leaving victims financially and emotionally devastated.
At NW Plus Credit Union, we believe financial wellness includes protecting your heart and your money. That’s why education and fraud prevention are a key part of how we support our members and community.
What Is a Love Scam?
Love scams typically begin on dating apps, social media, or even through text messages and email. Scammers create fake profiles and build what feels like a genuine relationship, sometimes over weeks or months, before asking for money.
Common red flags include:
- Someone who expresses strong feelings very quickly
- Refusing to meet in person or always having an excuse
- Requests for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers
- Claims of emergencies, medical issues, or travel problems
- Pressure to keep the relationship or request a secret
Once money is sent, it’s often impossible to recover.
Why Love Scams Are So Effective
Romance scams work because they target emotions, not logic. They can affect people of all ages and backgrounds—whether you’re new to online dating or simply enjoy connecting with others digitally. Scammers are skilled at creating trust and urgency, which can make even financially savvy individuals vulnerable.
How to Protect Yourself (and Your Finances)
Staying informed is your first line of defense. Here are a few ways to protect yourself:
- Never send money or financial information to someone you haven’t met in person
- Be cautious with what you share online, especially personal or financial details
- Trust your instincts! If something feels off, pause and reassess
- Talk to someone you trust before sending money or making big decisions
- Verify stories and photos. Many scammers reuse images or identities
How NW Plus Can Help
At NW Plus Credit Union, your security matters. Our team is here to help you recognize fraud, protect your accounts, and take action if something doesn’t feel right.
We offer:
- Fraud monitoring and alerts to help detect suspicious activity early
- Personalized support if you believe you’ve been targeted or scammed
- Educational resources to help you stay informed about common fraud trends
- A friendly, local team you can talk to when you're concerned. We are here to help!
If you’re ever unsure about a transaction or message, we encourage you to reach out. Asking questions early can make all the difference.
Love Smart This February
Real relationships don’t ask for secrecy or money. This Valentine’s season, protect what matters most by staying informed and leaning on trusted financial partners.
If you’re looking for a credit union that puts people first and helps you navigate life’s big moments, NW Plus Credit Union is here for you.
Never share your account number, passwords, answers to security questions, or other account information. We will never ask you for this type of information when we call or email you. If someone claiming to be a NW Plus CU representative asks for sensitive account information over the phone or in an email, end the conversation immediately, and call us at 425.297.1000 or come to one of our branches to report the incident.
