The Daily Money: 'Romance scams' cost consumers $1.14b

Good morning! It's Daniel de Visé with your Daily Money.

Liza Likins, who sang backup for such music icons as Stevie Nicks and Linda Ronstadt, was lonely and depressed after her husband, Greg, died in 2020. 

When a handsome blonde-haired man who resembled her late husband started messaging her on Facebook, Likins was lured into a relationship. She gave more than $1 million to a romance scammer – someone who convinced the singer he was in love with her, and he would join her in Las Vegas.  

In 2023, consumers lost $1.14 billion to romance scams, which bilk people out of money for love, Betty Lin-Fisher reports. Read her story here.

What is Temu?

Confused about all of the Temu ads that played during this year's Super Bowl? You're not alone.

Searches for e-commerce company Temu spiked after the company aired five commercials during and shortly after the game, each showing colorful animated characters purchasing goods for as little as 99 cents. A perky song played in the background as characters danced across the screen, promising viewers the chance to “shop like a billionaire.” 

A quick search on the platform’s website reveals jaw-dropping deals: $8 sneakers; $18 Airpod lookalikes; a $4 Stanley cup dupe.

But are the site's low prices worth it? Read Bailey Schulz's story to find out.

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🍔 Today's Menu 🍔

Dumplings for the dumped: P.F. Chang's says it will give six free dumplings to anyone who was recently dumped via text message, as part of a uniquely cynical Valentine's Day promotion.

From Feb. 7 through Feb 24, you can redeem your dumplings by proving you were dumped, Anthony Robledo reports. To redeem the deal, text the code "CHANGSDUMPLINGS" to 855-697-6181 along with a breakup story or screenshot of the breakup text. Then, await further instructions and claim your dumplings. Read the story.

About The Daily Money

Each weekday, The Daily Money delivers the best consumer news from USA TODAY. We break down financial news and provide the TLDR version: how decisions by the Federal Reserve, government and companies impact you.

Daniel de Visé covers personal finance for USA Today.