Reg readers looking for lurv are being warned about the pitfalls of online dating scams. The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) says some unscrupulous characters prey on people looking for a soul mate by pretending to fall head over heels for them.

In fact, once these cads and cadesses hook their victim, they then start asking for cash (so, a bit like marriage, ed).

One approach might be: "Hey bunnykins, I'd love to meet up but I don't have enough cashy-washy to make the trip, so will you be a good fluffy bunny and transfer it over?"

Or, they might try this one: "I need a lifesaving operation and you're the only one who can help..."

So, you've been warned. By sheer coincidence, today's red flag from the OFT comes on February 14 - St Valentine's Day - when people everywhere spend a fortune on cards, choccies and flowers. Pity no-one's issued a warning about that particular rip-off. ®

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