GATCHALIAN SOUNDS ALARM ON SURGE OF LOVE SCAMS AHEAD OF VALENTINE’S DAY

AS Valentine’s Day approaches, Senator Win Gatchalian warned the public against a more sophisticated breed of “love scams” that now leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and, in certain cases, even lead to the sexual exploitation of victims.

Gatchalian made the call following a warning from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) about the growing risk of AI-driven love scams targeting people seeking romantic relationships.

CICC data showed that in 2025, it received 123 formal complaints, with cases typically peaking from January to February, as well as in June and October.

“Despite the national ban on POGOs, criminal syndicates continue to exploit loopholes through various schemes, including love scams. Nakakalungkot na hindi na lang basta naloloko ang ilan nating kababayan ng perang kanilang pinag-hirapan, ang iba ay nagiging biktima pa ng prostitusyon,” Gatchalian said.

The CICC said it has identified six scammer profiles, namely the “sad boy/sad girl,” who shares dramatic problems before requesting money; the “seducer,” who obtains compromising photos; the “investor,” who proposes joint cryptocurrency schemes; the “serviceman,” who poses as military personnel overseas; the “escort,” who demands upfront payment; and the “slow burner,” who cultivates long-distance relationships before borrowing money.