Matrimonial site fraud: Chandrayangutta man duped of Rs 27.5 lakh in Bitcoin scam

Hyderabad: A 30-year-old resident of Chandrayangutta was cheated of Rs 27.50 lakh by a woman claiming to be from London, whom he met on a matrimonial platform.

The woman, who claimed to be originally from Chennai, gained his trust by promising marriage and lured him into investing in Bitcoin trading through a fraudulent online platform.

His online account showed high returns, which he couldn’t recover

He ended up transferring Rs 27,50,000 sourced from savings, loans and borrowings from friends. Though his account on the platform shows a balance of 162,467.67 USDT (approx. Rs 1.34 crore), the fraudsters are demanding a 10 per cent tax payment (approx. Rs 13.47 Lakhs) to withdraw, clearly indicating the scam.

Immediately, the victim reported the fraud online. A case was registered, and an investigation is on.

Public advisory

- Scammers use matrimony platforms and social media to lure victims with false promises of marriage and quick profits through cryptocurrency or online trading platforms.

- Do not trust unknown persons on matrimony or social media platforms who promise marriage or investment opportunities.

- Avoid investing in unverified cryptocurrency platforms or apps. Always use only RBI/SEBI-recognised channels.

- Never transfer money to strangers or on someone’s assurance of high returns.

- Verify the authenticity of websites, apps and contacts before making any financial transactions.

Who to contact in case of online fraud?

- Report unauthorised transactions at the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) or dial 1930

- In case of any emergency of cyber fraud, please call or WhatsApp 8712665171.

- Follow us on social media for the latest cyber awareness updates.