TGCSB warns of surge in Valentine’s Day online scams, urges vigilance
HYDERABAD: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) on Thursday issued an advisory warning citizens about a rise in online scams during the Valentine’s Day season.
Cybercriminals are targeting people through fake dating profiles, fraudulent gift and flower delivery offers, and fake discount links shared on WhatsApp, SMS, social media platforms and email.
While genuine promotions are common during this period, fraudsters exploit emotions and trust. They commit crimes such as online sextortion, matrimonial fraud and investment scams by promising relationships, marriage or financial security.
Emotion-driven frauds on the rise
The bureau said scammers create fake social media or dating profiles and slowly build emotional trust. After gaining trust, they ask victims to transfer money for emergencies, gift delivery charges or personal reasons.
In some cases, victims receive links for Valentine’s gifts, jewellery discounts, flower deliveries or event bookings. These links lead to fake payment pages or install harmful apps on devices.
Recent analysis shows a clear rise in emotion-based cybercrimes during the Valentine’s season. In 2025, Telangana recorded 384 matrimonial and romance fraud cases. Victims lost over ₹12.65 crore.
Online sextortion accounted for 1,231 cases, with losses of more than ₹3.20 crore. Cyberstalking and online harassment crossed 3,100 cases. These numbers show the growing misuse of digital platforms for emotional manipulation and threats.
Early trends in 2026 show that victimisation continues. This highlights the need for extra caution during relationship-themed festive periods.
Helpline 1930 for immediate reporting
The TGCSB warned citizens not to click on suspicious links or share one-time passwords (OTPs) and banking details. Doing so can lead to financial fraud, identity theft and loss of access to social media or bank accounts. Fraudsters may also use harmful apps to access personal data, contacts and financial details.
The bureau advised people to verify profiles before engaging on dating or social media platforms. It urged citizens to buy gifts or tickets only from trusted websites. It also asked the public to enable two-factor authentication on email, banking and social media accounts. Parents should discuss online safety with family members, especially youngsters.
Citizens should not accept friend requests from unknown profiles or send money to online acquaintances. They should avoid clicking on suspicious Valentine’s Day offer links or installing apps from unknown sources. They must never share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers, passwords, personal photos or financial details with strangers.
Victims of cyber fraud should immediately dial 1930, the national cyber fraud helpline, or file a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in. Early reporting during the “golden hour” improves the chances of preventing financial loss.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau reaffirmed its commitment to protect citizens from emerging cyber threats. It urged the public to stay alert during the Valentine’s season.
