Online scams have reached epidemic levels in the cyber world, with a significant increase in various types of cyber fraud, including work-from-home scams, stock market fraud, and WhatsApp scams, leaving victims financially vulnerable and emotionally stressed. One particular type of these is known for its emotional manipulation: the romance scam. In this scam, criminals form romantic relationships with their victims and then deceitfully steal their money.

Currently, romance scams are on the rise in metropolitan areas like Delhi and Hyderabad, with many people reporting losses due to alleged love connections they found on dating apps like Tinder. After going on a date and forming a real relationship, these victims lost their money in the name of love.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s actually happening:

What is a dating app scam?

Individuals, especially men, looking for romance on popular dating apps like Tinder and Bumble are falling prey to this well-planned dating scam. In this scam, fraudsters lure victims into going on expensive dates, leaving them both financially and emotionally ruined.

According to the report, the perpetrators of this scam execute the ruse with precision and cunning. They initiate contact through dating apps, engaging their targets in real conversations. The scammers, often posing as newcomers in town, fabricate stories of loneliness and a desire for companionship. They present themselves as vulnerable individuals seeking comfort in the company of others, a story carefully crafted to manipulate the emotions of their unsuspecting victims.

After building a friendship and sometimes love relationship, the scammers try to arrange a meeting at a local club as quickly as possible, setting the stage for their deceitful ploy. Once at the club, the scam reaches its peak. The scammer, portraying an opulent lifestyle, orders drinks without regard to the price, shocking the men.

What is special is that many cafe managers or employees are said to be associated with these scammers who collectively run this scheme. After ordering food, when the bill arrives, it usually costs thousands, ranging from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000. Despite their initial disbelief, the victims have to pay the entire bill as the scammer refuses to pay a single penny or in some cases, the scammers often leave before the person they came with does, leaving the victims to pay a hefty amount.

What sets this scam apart is its systematic nature. Multiple victims have come forward, each describing a similar experience. From initial contact on dating apps to expensive outings to local clubs, the pattern is the same.

How to stay safe from such scams?

Here are some tips to help you avoid such scams:

• Be careful in expressing your feelings: Always be wary of people who reveal their feelings or intentions too quickly on dating apps. Try to get to know someone well before meeting them in person.
• Verify their identity: Use a reverse image search to see if their profile picture has been used elsewhere. Ask for a video call before meeting to make sure they are who they claim to be.
• Choose a safe meeting location: Always choose a well-lit, crowded place for the first few meetings. Try to choose the place yourself, as scammers often work in syndicates and may lure victims to specific cafes where they connive with the staff to scam them.
• Avoid sending money or sharing financial information: Never send money or share financial information with someone you met online. Be suspicious of anyone asking for financial help or making big promises.
• Stay calm and aware: Avoid excessive drinking during the first few meetings. Be aware of your surroundings and actions and control them. Ask the person to split the bill. If someone leaves first and cannot be contacted, contact them. If they still do not get in touch, file a First Information Report (FIR) and report the incident.