AARP Maine Sun, 02/07/2021 - 7:15am February means Valentine’s Day, but romance scammers abound every month of the year. It’s important to understand that a “romance” scam isn’t about romance at all. It’s about people looking for social connection online – whether a dating site, an online game, or a neighborhood listserv. Criminal imposters are more than happy to provide that connection – at great cost. How can you tell if your new online connection is fake and what can you do if it is? First, be wary of a new relationship with someone who suddenly bestows on you overwhelming affection; this is what criminals call “grooming.” Second, check their photos using your web browser; both Google and Bing offer image search. You may find your Romeo’s picture is actually one of a Marine sergeant’s or from a magazine ad. Most importantly, don’t engage with any financial transaction – this is the biggest red flag and the one that can cost you thousands of dollars and great emotional pain.