Valentine’s Day, celebrated on June 12, drives the Brazilian retail sector and boosts online purchases of gifts, dinners, and romantic experiences. In 2024, the date generated over R$19.8 billion in e-commerce, according to a Neotrust survey, with a 23% growth compared to the previous year. For 2025, expectations are even higher – which also catches the attention of cybercriminals.
According to ZenoX, a threat intelligence startup of the Dfense Group, the increase in searches for deals on websites and social networks raises the risks of digital scams, such as phishing, scams, and the use of deepfakes. “Dates like Valentine’s Day are a goldmine for cybercriminals, as there’s a large volume of transactions, impulsiveness at the time of purchase, and less attention to details,” explains Ana Cerqueira, CRO of ZenoX.
The startup detected a 25% increase in the number of domains registered with terms related to ‘gift,’ ‘promotion,’ and ‘Valentine’s’ as early as May, which may indicate preparatory movements for frauds. “Many of these domains are created to simulate fake stores or promotional campaigns. The intention is to capture data or apply scams directly during the payment process,” warns the specialist.
In this scenario, the expert listed five fundamental tips to protect yourself from digital frauds this Valentine’s Day:
1. Check the URL and the site before buying
Avoid clicking on links received through messages or social networks. Type the store’s address directly into the browser and check if the site has a secure connection (lock icon next to the URL). “Phishing is still one of the main threats, so it’s important to confirm if the site is indeed official,” highlights Cerqueira.
2. Be wary of very low prices
Promotions well below market value can be a scam alert. “Compare prices on other sites and check the store’s reputation. If the discount seems too good to be true, it probably is,” recommends.
3. Prefer Secure Payment Methods
Give preference to recognized platforms such as Mercado Pago, PagSeguro, and credit cards — preferably virtual ones. “Temporary cards offered by various banks reduce the risk in case of data leaks,” advises the expert.
4. Be Careful with Videos and Audios of Celebrities
With the advancement of artificial intelligence, scams with deepfakes — fake videos or audios with celebrities or influencers — have become more common. “Always check on official profiles if that person is really promoting that campaign,” Cerqueira reinforces.
5. Use Additional Security Tools
Update your devices, keep a good antivirus installed, and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. “These measures help block malicious links and make unauthorized access to your accounts more difficult,” she concludes.
And if, despite all precautions, you fall for a scam?
The executive also advises on what to do if you become a victim of fraud:
- Immediately notify your financial institution to block unauthorized transactions and compromised cards or accounts.
- Gather all possible evidence: emails, messages, screenshots, etc.
- File a Police Report (BO), online or at a police station, to assist in the investigation.
- Monitor your bank statements and credit reports to identify suspicious activity.
