CNBC TV18
By Priyanka Deshpande
Published Feb 13, 2024
Ahead of Valentine’s Day, McAfee's 'Modern Love' study cautions about a surge in Valentine-related scams and anticipates an increase in scam activity as February 14 gets closer.
The study reported a 25% increase in Valentine-related malware, a 300% surge in malicious URLs, and a 400% rise in various romance-themed spam and email scams, primarily targeting Valentine’s shopping and gifts.
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The study found that 77% of Indians encountered AI-generated fake profiles/photos on dating platforms and social media.
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The study discovered that 26% of individuals conversed with what they thought was a potential love interest, only to find out it was an AI-generated bot and not a real person.
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This Valentine’s Day, prevent financial and emotional heartbreak by taking the following steps…
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Scrutinise any direct messages you receive from a love interest, via a dating app or social media. Additionally, avoid clicking on links in messages from individuals you haven't met in person.
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#1
Perform a reverse-image search on the person's profile pictures. If the results reveal associations with a different name or details inconsistent with what they've shared, you might be dealing with a scammer.
#2
Avoid sending money or gifts to someone you haven't met in person, even if they send you money first. Scammers use such tactics to build trust, so refrain from sharing personal or account information, even if the other person does.
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#3
Discuss your new love interest with a trusted person. It's easy to overlook inconsistencies when hopeful and excited, so heed any concerns from friends or family. Take things slowly in the relationship.
#4
Invest in tools to help identify online scams
#5
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