Photo: Getty ImagesCantabrians looking for love on dating apps this Valentine's Day are being warned to watch out for romantic scammers who target the day to exploit singles. The internet watchdog Netsafe says the tricksters count on the age-old adage that "love is blind". Between 2018 and 2019 there were over 130 so-called "romance scams" reported to the internet watchdog in NZ, with the average financial loss a staggering $31,000. Cocker said romance scams were particularly effective at extracting money over long periods, with most victims making multiple payments. "These scams can be harmful on many levels and, you know, I really feel for victims of romance scams and encourage them to come forward and talk to Netsafe about what they can do to resolve their situation."

Source: Otago Daily Times February 13, 2020 21:48 UTC