An engineering graduate in Visakhapatnam fell victim to a sophisticated online dating scam, losing over Rs 28 lakh. The victim, an unmarried mechanical engineer, was targeted by cyber crooks who created fake profiles on dating websites and apps to develop romantic relationships with unsuspecting individuals.
How the techie was trapped
Investigations revealed that the engineer was ensnared by a well-orchestrated scam involving a fake online profile.The fraudsters, operating from Telangana, skillfully manipulated the victim’s emotions, convincing him to transfer large sums of money under various pretexts. The police have identified one member of the gang, Kommagoni Lokesh, and are on the lookout for the other two accomplices.
“This dating scam is a new type of fraud where cyber crooks create fake profiles, featuring attractive women, on dating websites or apps to trap gullible men. Once a contact is established with the potential victims, the imposter engages in frequent and intimate communication to build trust and emotional connection with them,” Cybercrimes police station inspector K Bhavani Prasad, told TOI.
“Thereafter, the cybercrooks devise a fascinating story to seek money. Besides extorting money through fake narratives, the fraudsters also blackmail their victims by threatening to make public their personal information and compromising photos shared during the relationship. We have received complaints from some of the victims, who have lost good amounts of money in the fraud,” added Prasad.
Tips to stay safe from online romance scams
How the techie was trapped
Investigations revealed that the engineer was ensnared by a well-orchestrated scam involving a fake online profile.The fraudsters, operating from Telangana, skillfully manipulated the victim’s emotions, convincing him to transfer large sums of money under various pretexts. The police have identified one member of the gang, Kommagoni Lokesh, and are on the lookout for the other two accomplices.
“This dating scam is a new type of fraud where cyber crooks create fake profiles, featuring attractive women, on dating websites or apps to trap gullible men. Once a contact is established with the potential victims, the imposter engages in frequent and intimate communication to build trust and emotional connection with them,” Cybercrimes police station inspector K Bhavani Prasad, told TOI.
“Thereafter, the cybercrooks devise a fascinating story to seek money. Besides extorting money through fake narratives, the fraudsters also blackmail their victims by threatening to make public their personal information and compromising photos shared during the relationship. We have received complaints from some of the victims, who have lost good amounts of money in the fraud,” added Prasad.
Tips to stay safe from online romance scams
- Scammers often create a sense of urgency to rush you into a committed relationship.
- Use reverse image search to confirm the authenticity of profile pictures. Be cautious about sharing personal information.
- Never send money to someone you’ve only met online, regardless of the reason
- Set clear boundaries and avoid sharing sensitive information, such as your financial details or address.
- If something feels off, it probably is. End communication immediately if you suspect a scam.
- Stay informed about common romance scams and how to identify them.
- Be cautious of people who claim to be from overseas or unable to meet in person
- If you decide to meet, choose a public place and inform a friend or family member of your plans.
