Dating App Scam: Cyber criminals contact people by creating attractive photos and impressive profiles. After gaining trust in the initial conversation, they obtain personal information. In many cases, recording is done during the video call.
Dating App Scam: In the era of smartphones, the search for friendship and relationships is now limited to the screen. Every day thousands of youth are making new connections on dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, TrulyMadly, but cyber criminals have also spread their nets in this digital world. In the name of ‘love’, ‘friendship’ and ‘relationship’, cases of cheating, honeytrap and blackmailing are increasing rapidly. In view of the situation, cyber police has issued a strict advisory.
How do cyber criminals trap you?
Cyber criminals contact people by creating attractive photos and impressive profiles. After gaining trust in the initial conversation, they obtain personal information. In many cases, recording is made during a video call and later it is edited or made into a deepfake and blackmailed. Money is demanded from the victim and if not given, the video is threatened to go viral. Police officials say that most of the victims do not lodge complaints due to emotional pressure, which increases the morale of the criminals. Fraud worth lakhs of rupees has come to light in many cases.
How does gang work?
- Creating profile with fake photo and name.
- Show emotional connection early.
- Move to WhatsApp or private chat.
- Asking for video calls or personal photos.
- Blackmail and extortion of money by recording.
What advice did the cyber police give?
- Beware of fake profiles: Don’t trust someone just by looking at their photo or bio.
- Do not share personal information: Never give mobile number, address, office details, bank information or OTP.
- Vigilance in video call: While making a video call with a stranger, keep in mind the camera angle and background, if suspicious activity is seen, immediately disconnect the call.
- Don’t send obscene material: Sending private photos or videos is the biggest risk.
- Choose a safe place to meet: If it is necessary to meet, then meet only in a crowded public place and inform someone close to you.
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What to do if you become a victim?
If you become a victim of fraud or blackmailing, do not panic. Immediately lodge a complaint at the nearest police station. Call the national cyber helpline number 1930 or lodge a complaint online on the official portal www.cybercrime.gov.in. A timely complaint increases the chances of freezing the money and reaching out to the criminals.
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