Malakpet man loses Rs 6.5 lakh to online matrimonial scam
The victim realised it was a sophisticated dating and friendship scam operated by a group impersonating as representatives of reputed companies and reported the fraud at CCPS, Hyderabad.
By Newsmeter Network
Malakpet man loses Rs 6.5 lakh to online matrimonial scam
Hyderabad: A 32-year-old resident of Malakpet was duped of Rs 6.5 lakh in an online dating and friendship scam. The scammers contacted him when he gave his details to a dating website.
It started with a registration fee
As he was searching for a suitable lady to marry or enter a live-in relationship, he received a WhatsApp call on July 9 from a woman named Tanya Sharma, who offered to include him in a friendship group after paying a registration fee of Rs 1,950.
Multiple payments in the name of hotel booking and privacy security
Later, he was contacted by women named Priti and Ritika, who convinced him to make several payments under various refundable categories such as hotel booking, meeting confirmation, service tax, refund process, account verification and privacy security.
Believing their claims, the victim transferred a total of Rs 6,49,840.11 to multiple bank accounts provided by the fraudsters.
Later, the victim realised it was a sophisticated dating and friendship scam operated by a group impersonating as representatives of reputed companies and reported the fraud at CCPS, Hyderabad.
Public advisory
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages on WhatsApp, social media or dating platforms offering friendship or marriage opportunities.
- Never pay registration fees, advance amounts, or ‘refundable charges’ for meeting arrangements, memberships or verification processes.
- Verify the identity of the person or organisation before sharing personal or financial information.
- Avoid transferring money to unknown bank accounts or individuals claiming to provide refunds or lucrative returns.
- Remember, legitimate dating or matrimonial services do not demand multiple payments under different pretexts.
- Stay vigilant and consult family or friends before making any financial decisions based on online interactions.
What to do in case of a cybercrime
Victims of cybercrime fraud can immediately dial 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in. In case of an emergency regarding cyber fraud, please call or WhatsApp on 8712665171.
Follow the police on these links for the latest cyber awareness updates:
- https://www.facebook.com/
