A Feb 14 media release from the Western Australian government reported increases in romance‑scam victim counts and financial losses in 2025 and reiterated warnings about AI‑enabled impersonation and counterfeit online retail offers ahead of Valentine’s Day. The release directed victims to report to ScamNet and to access support services.

On Feb 14, the Western Australian government published a media release detailing that both the number of romance‑scam victims and aggregate losses rose in 2025, and officials used the timing to remind residents about emerging AI‑enabled impersonation tactics. The announcement presented regional statistics showing year‑over‑year increases in reported incidents and described common exploit patterns observed locally: fake dating profiles, AI‑generated images used to bolster credibility, and links to counterfeit online shops that harvest payment credentials. The release emphasized the importance of early reporting to ScamNet, contacting banks to attempt transaction recovery, and accessing victim support resources provided by state services. Officials also advised practical countermeasures such as reverse‑image searching of profile photos, verifying new contacts by voice or video calls outside the platform, and skepticism of unsolicited investment offers or sudden requests for money. By combining data, prevention guidance, and signposting to local assistance, the government sought to reduce stigma around reporting and improve outcomes for victims during a high‑risk seasonal period.