As Valentine’s Day draws near, scammers are looking to take advantage of people looking for love. The United States Postal Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are warning everyone about romance scams and sharing how to avoid falling victim.

They won't ask for money immediately. Scammers usually practice at least one virtue: patience. "They don't typically come right out and ask for your money," says Simerly. "Instead, they will spend weeks – or even months – in the pursuit of getting to know their targets while they build trust."

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the FBI Springfield office is cautioning the public to be vigilant about online relationships, warning that not all digital connections are genuine.

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) urge consumers this Valentine's Day season to be aware of romance scams.

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) are warning individuals of romance scams ahead of Valentine’s Day. Romance scams are a deceptive form of fraud that prey on individuals seeking companionship.