When love goes digital: Staying safe online this Valentine’s Day

As people turn to digital channels to share affection this Valentine’s Day, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) highlights the importance of protecting personal information to keep both yourself and loved ones safe.

During this season, scammers often take advantage of heightened online activity. Phishing attempts may appear as exclusive Valentine’s deals, gift delivery notifications, or urgent messages that seem to come from trusted brands or even loved ones. These seemingly harmless links can lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal login credentials, card details, or one-time passwords.

The increased volume of purchases also makes card‑related scams more common. Fake online stores, compromised payment pages, and too‑good‑to‑be‑true offers can put customers at risk—especially when transactions are rushed or done without proper verification.

To help customers stay protected, BPI continues to strengthen its efforts to promote safe digital habits. Through ongoing advisories and practical reminders, the bank encourages the public to stay vigilant and adopt simple but effective steps to safeguard themselves from fraud, particularly during high‑activity seasons like Valentine’s Day.

“Valentine’s Day is about trust, care, and connection, and those same values should guide how we behave online. As more people shop, send money, and share personal moments digitally, scammers look for opportunities to take advantage. Staying alert and protecting personal and card information is a simple but meaningful way to look after yourself and the people you love,” said Luigi Manianglung, Head of Fraud Risk Operations at BPI.

This Valentine’s Day, BPI encourages consumers to keep the following in mind:

1. Never click links in SMS. Be cautious of unsolicited messages, promos, or offers that create urgency or seem too good to be true.

2. Keep card and account details private. Never share card numbers, expiry date, PINs, CVCs/CVVs (three digits at the back of the card), especially the one-time PIN (OTP) to anyone, even if the request appears to come from a legitimate source.

3. Transact only on trusted platforms. Double check website addresses and look for secure payment pages before completing purchases.

4. Avoid public WiFi for financial transactions. Use secure and private internet connections when shopping or sending money online.

5. Monitor accounts regularly. Review card and account activity and report any suspicious transactions immediately.

6. Enable alerts and limits. Transaction notifications and spending limits help provide early warning of unusual activity.

7. Ensure that your contact information is updated to receive important reminders or notifications from your bank and read SMS messages carefully.

This Valentine’s Day, love wisely online. Beyond gifts and messages, protecting personal and financial information is a meaningful way to care for oneself and others.

After all, 143 means “I love you.”

1 - Your security comes first: never click on links.

4 - Never share this 4 information: Card Number, Expiry Date, CVV/CVC, and One Time PIN (OTP) or Password.

3 - Follow these 3 simple steps when in doubt: pause, verify, and report.