As Valentine’s Day approaches, the Consumer Rights Protection Centre (CRPC) urges consumers to exercise particular caution — both when purchasing personalised gifts and when meeting people online. Decisions made hastily in a festive mood may lead to unpleasant surprises.
Purchasing Valentine’s Day Gifts
Giving a gift remains one of the most common ways to express affection. Some consumers place their orders well in advance, while others shop at the last minute. To avoid disappointment, it is important to carefully assess your purchase.
Although consumers generally have the right to withdraw from a distance contract within 14 days, there are exceptions. The right of withdrawal does not apply to:
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personalised goods (for example, items engraved with a name or customised with a photograph);
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services provided on a specific date (for example, concert or event tickets).
Before ordering a bracelet engraved with a name, a phone case featuring a photo from your first date, or tickets to a favourite band’s concert, make sure you are confident in your choice. Personalised goods cannot be returned, and the seller is not obliged to refund the purchase price.
Romantic Scams
Valentine’s Day is also a time when many people seek relationships online. CRPC reminds consumers that not everything is as perfect as it may initially seem.
If you meet someone online — for example, via Facebook, Instagram or Tinder — remember that what begins as an innocent conversation may develop into a fraudulent scheme.
Recognise Romantic Fraud
To achieve their objective, fraudsters typically build trust by sending photographs and sharing what appears to be a personal life story. They may promise to visit soon and claim they will do everything to make you feel loved and happy. During such exchanges, the person often creates the impression that they have financial means but are temporarily unable to access their funds due to unexpected circumstances.
It is important to note that the fraudster may be either male or female.
The aim of such communication is to obtain your banking details and gain access to your bank account — for example, your online banking user number, Smart-ID PIN codes, payment card number and PIN — in order to steal money.
How to Protect Yourself
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Never disclose your banking details, Smart-ID credentials or PIN codes;
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Do not send photographs that could later be used for blackmail;
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Do not transfer money to someone you do not know well;
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Do not rush — you have the right to verify information and make considered financial decisions.
If you have become a victim of financial fraud, contact your bank immediately and report the matter to the State Police.