As Valentine’s Day draws near, love and affection are not the only things filling the air – so are scams. With online dating increasingly popular for those seeking a romantic connection, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in this space has introduced a new wave of challenges. According to a new McAfee India research report, a surprising 61% of people believe it’s possible to develop romantic feelings for an AI chatbot, raising questions about the evolving nature of human relationships in a tech-driven world.

The report highlights a disturbing surge in AI-driven romance scams, fraudulent dating apps, and the rise of deepfake technology. These deceptive practices have made it increasingly difficult for individuals to distinguish between genuine romantic connections and digital fraud. As the online dating scene continues to grow, so does the risk of being misled by con artists using AI to impersonate real people.

In other countries, social media platforms have become the go-to for people searching for love, overtaking traditional dating apps and websites. According to the research, 85% of respondents prefer Instagram to meet potential partners, while WhatsApp (55%), Telegram (50%), and Snapchat (46%) are also popular choices. When it comes to dedicated dating apps, Tinder remains the most widely used platform, with 61% of people reporting their use, followed by Facebook Dating (36%), Bumble (33%), and Match (23%).

As more individuals flock to digital spaces in search of love, fraudsters are increasingly exploiting this growing trend. AI technologies, in particular, have enabled scammers to create fake profiles and even deploy deepfake technology, making their deception more convincing than ever before. This new wave of digital trickery has raised concerns among experts about the safety of online dating and how much control AI should have in forming human relationships.

One of the most worrying aspects of the McAfee report is the rise of scams involving impersonation of celebrities and public figures on social media platforms. Nearly 42% of respondents reported that they or someone they knew had been approached by an individual claiming to be a famous personality. These impersonators often gain trust by engaging in fan-based interactions, making their presence appear authentic and credible.

The consequences of falling victim to such scams can be severe, as the McAfee report reveals. Among those who fell for or knew someone who fell for a celebrity impersonation scam, 47% reported financial losses, 48% had their personal information stolen, which could potentially lead to identity theft, and 56% experienced emotional distress. The scams often involve fake opportunities to meet or collaborate with celebrities, romantic propositions, expensive giveaways, or VIP passes.

As digital spaces continue to serve as the backdrop for modern romance, it’s clear that both love and deceit are being shaped by technology. With the growing prominence of AI chatbots in the realm of online dating, the line between human connection and artificial companionship is becoming increasingly blurred. For individuals seeking genuine relationships in the digital world, the advice remains clear: be vigilant, protect your privacy, and always be cautious when interacting with people online – whether they are real or AI-generated.