AI Makes Dating Scams Smarter: Protect Your Money This Valentine’s

Summary

As technology grows smarter, so do dating scams in South Africa. Scammers now use artificial intelligence (AI) to trick people into falling in love online before asking for money. These scams are becoming more convincing, making it harder for people to spot fake profiles and love stories. Around Valentine's Day, many South Africans are more vulnerable as they seek romantic relationships. At the same time, some scammers combine fake love tales with loan offers, tricking victims into borrowing or sending money they cannot afford to lose. The slow response to tackling these scams after the State of the Nation Address (Sona) puts consumers at more risk. It is important for South Africans to stay alert, verify online connections carefully, and avoid sharing financial information or sending money to people they haven’t met face-to-face. Small businesses and investors should also be cautious about any unusual financial requests received through dating websites or social media. By staying informed about these modern tricks, South Africans can protect their hearts and wallets from scams during Valentine’s season and beyond.