Today is Valentine’s Day and the RNC is warning about online romance scams targeting people seeking companionship through online dating sites and apps.

The RNC recently received a complaint involving a woman who lost $500,000 over the course of nine months to a man she met online.

The scammer coerced the woman into believing he was in need of financial help, and as a result she sent him bank drafts, cash and cryptocurrency.

Victims are often “catfished” by scammers who create a fake identify and develop an online relationship, gaining the victim’s trust. The scammers will then create a fake scenario, claiming to need money fast. That could include a medical emergency, legal fees, travel expenses or other bills.

The money may be requested in cash through the mail, wire transfer, gift cards, or through bitcoins or other types of cryptocurrency.

The RNC says warning signs to watch for include a relationship that is moving too fast. Be suspicious if the person cannot do video calls or provides excuses about why they can’t meet in person, especially after an extended period of online dating.

Police are also warning people never to send money to someone you’ve never met.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has fallen victim to a romance scam, contact the RNC at 709-729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-495-8501.