![FILE - A pedestrian passes Valentine's day stuffed animals for sale ahead of the holiday in Philadelphia, Feb. 13, 2019. Romance scams are increasingly common, with consumers losing $1.3 billion to them in 2022, according to Federal Trade Commission reports. While anyone can fall victim to a romance scam, there are strategies you can use to reduce your risk. First, be wary of online relationships that move quickly. Common red flags include someone avoiding video calls or in-person meetings. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)](https://twt-thumbs.washtimes.com/media/image/2024/01/29/NerdWallet-Kimberly_Palmer-Avoid_Romance_Scam_06047_s878x585.jpg?9739c089d09019457eff90957353d2bf131e7da7)
FILE - A pedestrian passes Valentine's day stuffed animals for sale ahead of the holiday in Philadelphia, Feb. 13, 2019. Romance scams are increasingly common, with consumers losing $1.3 billion to them in 2022, according to Federal Trade Commission reports. While anyone can fall victim to a romance scam, there are strategies you can use to reduce your risk. First, be wary of online relationships that move quickly. Common red flags include someone avoiding video calls or in-person meetings. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)
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