As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is in the air—but so are digital deceptions. While online dating has become a mainstream way to meet potential partners, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced new complexities. A recent study by cybersecurity firm McAfee reveals that nearly 61 per cent of people believe it is possible to develop romantic feelings for an AI chatbot.
The McAfee India research report highlights a growing concern about AI-driven romance scams, fraudulent dating apps, and deepfake deception, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to distinguish between genuine affection and artificial trickery.
AI chatbots and emotional vulnerability
According to the study, approximately 51 per cent of respondents reported that they or someone they know had been approached by an AI chatbot impersonating a real person on a dating platform or social media. This trend raises concerns about emotional manipulation, with 38 per cent believing that forming a bond with an AI chatbot increases vulnerability to scams.
Pratim Mukherjee, Senior Director of Engineering at McAfee, commented on the findings:
“Our survey highlights that online dating comes with its own set of challenges. About 84 per cent of Indians say online dating scams—including deepfake audio, video, imagery, and scam messages—have impacted their ability to trust potential matches. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is crucial to remain vigilant and continually educate ourselves about evolving online scams.”
Social media favoured over dating apps
The digital dating landscape is evolving, with social media now more popular than dating apps for romantic connections. McAfee’s report reveals that Instagram is the leading platform (85 per cent) for online dating, followed by WhatsApp (55 per cent), Telegram (50 per cent), and Snapchat (46 per cent).
Among dedicated dating apps, Tinder remains the most popular (61 per cent), followed by Facebook Dating (36 per cent), Bumble (33 per cent), and Match (23 per cent). As more people turn to these platforms to find love, fraudsters are adapting their tactics, using fake profiles and AI-driven conversations to deceive unsuspecting users.
Scammers impersonating celebrities
One of the more alarming trends identified in the report is the rise of celebrity impersonation scams on social media. Nearly 42 per cent of respondents said they or someone they know had been contacted by an individual posing as a famous personality.
These scams typically begin with fan-based interactions that create a sense of authenticity and trust. The impersonators often claim to offer exclusive interactions, personal connections, or even romantic relationships.
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The impact of falling for such scams can be devastating. Among those affected:
- 47 per cent experienced financial loss
- 48 per cent had their personal information stolen, increasing the risk of identity theft
- 56 per cent suffered emotional distress
Common schemes include fake opportunities to meet celebrities, fraudulent romantic offers, expensive giveaway scams, and the sale of VIP passes that do not exist.
How to stay safe from AI romance scams
As AI technology becomes more advanced, distinguishing between real and artificial interactions will become increasingly challenging. McAfee advises online daters to:
✅ Be sceptical of overly affectionate or unusually fast-moving relationships online.
✅ Verify identities by conducting video calls before sharing personal details.
✅ Beware of red flags, such as requests for money, personal data, or unusual demands.
✅ Use reputable dating platforms that have security measures in place.
✅ Report suspicious activity to the relevant platform or authorities.
As AI chatbots and deepfake technology continue to evolve, online users must remain cautious. While digital interactions can offer meaningful connections, they also present risks that should not be overlooked.
