Clark Howard: How to make the most of your Valentine’s Day and avoid scams

Jacksonville, FL — Love is in the air and Consumer Warrior Clark Howard wants to make sure you’re not confusing the love with scammers trying to romance you.

Clark says some people tend to flock to the Internet to find love during this time, but he doesn’t want you to fall in love with a scammer. Clark wants you to pay attention to the person you are talking to. He says if you two are planning to meet up, but they are being flaky about it – chances are they could be in it just for your money.

"Notice as they play this game, reeling you in, that ultimately – almost always it will come back to somebody who is using the heart as a way to con you out of your money."

Clark points to a popular scam when the person says they are serving overseas in the military which is why they cannot meet up. He warns to never send money to somebody you don’t know or never met.

READ: 5 Valentine's Day scams your wallet will NOT love 

If you already have that special loved one to spend Valentine’s Day – Clark has several last-minute tips to make the most out of Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank.

Clark suggests buying flowers before February 14th and deliver them yourself.

MORE: 7 ways to save on Valentine's Day flowers 

When it comes to making dinner plans – there’s no secret that some restaurants will be crowded as some couples made reservations days and sometimes weeks in advance. Clark says this is just another good reason why couples should avoid eating out on February 14th because restaurants get overwhelmed.

"They have to bring in a lot extra help that may not be very experienced. They tend to use a potentially more limited menu at higher prices."

When it comes to your sweetheart’s sweet tooth, Clark says just grab the chocolate or other Valentine’s day themed sweets the day after because it will be on clearance. Just make sure you don’t give them the last year’s chocolate you forgot you hid in the closet.

LISTEN: Clark Howard's latest podcast