The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a warning regarding a notable rise in incidents of matrimonial fraud occurring online. According to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), cybercriminals have been exploiting matrimonial websites and applications by impersonating affluent professionals or Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). These fraudsters gain the trust of potential victims by promising marriage, only to ultimately deceive them out of substantial amounts of money.

The I4C advisory highlights that the increasing use of digital matrimonial platforms has opened new avenues for fraudsters. These perpetrators create convincing fake profiles, often claiming to be doctors, engineers, businesspeople, military officers, or expatriates. After establishing a rapport over a series of communications, they begin requesting money under various pretexts, such as fees for customs on gifts, travel costs, visa expenses, or medical emergencies.

Typically, the fraud follows a familiar pattern where criminals initially craft appealing profiles complete with made-up credentials and photos designed to attract potential partners. After nurturing a sense of trust through exchanges that may last days or weeks, they express their intention to marry, subsequently leading to financial requests.

Common Tactics Used by Fraudsters

The advisory elaborates on specific signs and red flags that users should be vigilant about while engaging on matrimonial platforms. Among these warning signs is the propensity of some individuals to rush into marriage soon after connecting online. Additionally, requests for financial assistance under various guises, claims of sending expensive gifts requiring customs clearance, refusal of video calls, and identity verification are crucial indicators of potential fraud.

Furthermore, emotional manipulation is a frequent tactic employed by these fraudsters, who may resort to phrases such as, “If you love me, help me,” or fabricate urgent scenarios requiring financial help. The agency strongly recommends that users independently verify the identities of potential matches before placing any trust in them.

Individuals seeking to engage on these platforms are advised against transferring funds to anyone they only know online. Verifying employment details, social media accounts, and family backgrounds is essential prior to advancing relationships. Conducting video calls, requesting to engage with family members, and utilising reverse image search tools to confirm the authenticity of profile pictures can provide additional layers of safety.

Reporting and Assistance for Victims

The Home Ministry has urged victims of matrimonial fraud to take immediate action by reporting incidents through the national cyber helpline, 1930, as well as filing complaints via the government’s cybercrime portal. It is crucial for victims to retain all evidence related to the incident, including chat logs, profile links, mobile numbers, email addresses, UPI IDs, bank transaction slips, and call recordings, to assist law enforcement in their investigations.

Officials have pointed out that matrimonial fraud is distinct from conventional financial scams due to its basis in emotional deceit. Fraudsters typically build a facade of trust and exploit victims’ aspirations for marriage before persuading them to part with their money. The repercussions often extend beyond financial loss, leaving victims with enduring emotional trauma.

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