Valentine’s Day Scams

Background

Valentine’s Day is when people show their affection for others by sending gifts or items with messages of love. Malicious cyber actors also take advantage of the day to defraud unsuspecting victims through various schemes. The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) is by this alert reminding the public to exercise caution and due diligence in their online activities.

Modus Operandi

  • Romance Scams: malicious actors create fake online profiles to deceive victims into believing they are engaging in a trusting relationship. They use the relationship to persuade the victims to send money, provide personal and financial information, or purchase items for them.
  • Shopping Fraud: malicious actors create fake websites or online shops or impersonate existing businesses on social media pages, offering heavily discounted packages and items. Victims are enticed to send money for these deals but never receive the promised packages/items.
  • Phishing Scams: malicious actors send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from a romantic partner, or from a company offering Valentine's Day deals. These messages contain links or attachments that when clicked, install malicious software (malware), or steal personal information.
  • Lottery and Prize Scams: malicious actors contact victims and claim that they have won a prize or lottery for a Valentine's Day gift but need to pay a fee or provide personal information to claim the prize
  • Charity Scam: malicious actors may contact victims and claim to be a charity organization. They may ask for donations for Valentine’s Day gifts for needy children and other related causes.

Recommendation

  • Be wary of unsolicited messages or emails claiming to be from a romantic partner.
  • Be cautious of "too good to be true" deals on Valentine's Day packages or gifts.
  • Do not share personal information such as your Ghana card number, credit card information, or bank account details with anyone, especially if you do not know them well.
  • Use a reputable online marketplace or retailer when purchasing Valentine's Day gifts. Look for reviews and customer feedback before making online purchase.
  • Be cautious of online romantic partners who make requests for money or other sensitive information.

Contact the Cyber Security Authority

The CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking clarification and guidance on online links and transactions;Call or Text – 292, WhatsApp – 0501603111, Email – report@csa.gov.gh

Issued by Cyber Security Authority February 9, 2023