Thiruvananthapuram: Cyber fraudsters are increasingly using dating and matrimonial platforms to lure emotionally vulnerable individuals into fake investment and trading scams. Police have reported a sharp rise in online romance-related financial frauds in the city.
Data accessed by TOI from cyberpolice showed that around 103 complaints linked to online romance and matrimony frauds were received within city police limits between January and May 12 this year. However, barely 10% of the complaints resulted in FIRs, largely due to victims' reluctance to approach police because of social stigma and fear of family scrutiny.
Police sources said fraudsters primarily target divorced, separated, and emotionally distressed individuals through dating and matrimonial platforms. Married men and women are also among those targeted. Most victims are aged between 28 and 50 years, while financial losses reported ranged from Rs 2,000 to nearly Rs 60 lakh.
According to investigators, the accused usually spend days or even weeks building emotional trust through continuous conversations before introducing victims to fraudulent investment or trading schemes. 'The accused first attempt to create emotional comfort and trust with the victim through regular communication. Once the victim becomes emotionally attached and confident about the relationship, they gradually introduce trading or investment opportunities promising huge profits within a short period. Victims are then persuaded to click links to fake trading applications or websites and transfer money in multiple stages,' a senior police official said.
Crime Branch sources said fraudsters often conduct detailed background checks before approaching targets online. 'These groups closely study the victim's social media presence, including family background, profession, education and lifestyle. They mainly identify people who appear vulnerable or are looking for companionship after a breakup, divorce or personal crisis. The conversations are carefully tailored after understanding the victim's emotional weaknesses,' a police source said.
Officials said many victims avoid filing formal complaints even after losing money. 'In many cases, victims may have shared private conversations, photographs or personal details with the accused. Fear of embarrassment, family pressure and social judgement prevent several people from approaching police,' a cyberwing officer said.
Police sources added that cyberpolice generally handle cases involving losses above Rs 10 lakh, while smaller complaints are transferred to local police stations for further probe. Officials advised the public to avoid sharing financial details with strangers online and not to click suspicious investment or trading links received through dating or matrimonial platforms.
