How are frauds happening on matrimonial sites? Explained

New Delhi: The fraudsters and scammers are using matrimonial sites to trick people and dupe them of thousands and lakhs of money. The fraudsters are using matchmaking and matrimonial sites to target innocent people by luring them with fake promises or assuring expensive gifts. Money9 brings gives you an insight of how frauds are happening on matchmaking websites and also educate people on the steps they need to take to remain safe and alert.

How frauds are happening on matrimonial sites

The fraudsters are creating fake profiles and present themselves as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or individuals with very high salary packages to gain one’s trust. The fraudsters are also using attractive photos and fabricated personal details to lure people who are genuinely finding a match for themselves.

The fraudsters first win the trust of the people and then demand money for some emergency. The cheaters are very soft spoken and try to engage in lengthy conversations in an attempt to emotionally target their targets. If they are able to build trust, then they try to entice innocent people with false stories of financial hardships, or emergencies to solicit money.

The fraudsters demand money by saying that they are sending an expensive gift but the custom duties and airport charges need to be paid. The innocent people fall for such traps and lose their money.

Not only this, fraudsters/criminals/scammers create fake profiles and target individuals for human trafficking, extortion or escaping taxes like customs duty.

Matrimonial site frauds: How to remain safe

• Individuals should be cautious of profiles that seem too good and everything looks perfect. People should crosscheck thoroughly when they come across attractive photos, moderate needs, higher salaries and expectations, etc.
• People should always make sure to verify the information available on matrimonial sites with other sources like social media and mutual connections.
• Finalise/Commit to marriage only after public meetings and also ensure to meeting prospective groom or bride’s parents/relatives. Visiting their work place and a thorough personal reference check is a must.
• Never reveal your bank account information or passwords of emails and social media accounts.

Red Flag: Don’t send money

One should never send money to someone who you have only met online. Majority of the fraud cases include fraudsters narrating emotional stories to win the trust and then ask for financial help with a promise to return the funds shortly. However, once the money transfer is made, the fraudsters disappear with no trail.

Fraudsters are always reluctant to meet in person and one should make sure that a meeting is arranged in a public place before committing to a serious relationship.

With matrimonial dating scam on the rise, the government has also advised people to remain alert and has asked them to be aware. The matrimonial websites are also taking steps and doing cross verification of profiles to catch hold fraudsters.

Where to report about matrimonial sites fraud

People who get cheated or are suspicious about some profile on matrimonial websites should approach Cyber Crime department or call on Toll Free helpline number 193.