The reality you need to know about Online Matrimonial & Dating Scams: Red Flags and Legal Action in India
With the rise of dating apps and matrimonial websites in India, more people are finding love online — but unfortunately, scams have also increased. From fake profiles to emotional manipulation and financial fraud, cybercriminals are targeting people seeking relationships. This post explains how these scams work, how to recognize red flags early, and what legal remedies are available under Indian law if you or someone you know becomes a victim.
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Types of Online Matrimonial & Dating Scams in India
Here are common scam patterns reported on dating and matrimonial platforms:
- Fake NRI Profiles: Impersonators claim to be settled abroad and promise marriage
- Emotional Manipulation: Gain trust, then fabricate an emergency to ask for money
- Phishing Links: Links sent via chat to extract personal data or access your device
- Sextortion: Persuading users to share intimate content, then using it to blackmail them
- False Promise of Marriage: Engage emotionally and disappear after receiving money or gifts
Scammers target men and women alike — and many victims never report the incident due to embarrassment or fear.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Scam Early
Here are warning signs that the person you’re chatting with may be a fraudster:
- They ask to move the conversation to WhatsApp or private chat quickly
- Their profile photos look too professional or generic (often stolen)
- They avoid video calls or live meetings
- They claim urgent financial emergencies (medical issues, customs fees, visa problems)
- They ask for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- You find inconsistencies in their stories or background
Applicable Indian Laws for Relationship Scams
If someone tricks you online and causes emotional or financial harm, these laws apply:
- Section 66D of the IT Act: Impersonation and cheating by using communication devices
- Section 66C of the IT Act: Identity theft — using fake names, photos, or accounts
- Section 420 of IPC: Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property
- Section 507 of IPC: Criminal intimidation via anonymous or disguised identity
- Section 384 of IPC: Extortion (if money is demanded using threats)
Even if the scammer is based outside India, cybercrime units can collaborate with Interpol or foreign police through the appropriate channels.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Targeted
If you suspect or confirm a scam, take these immediate actions:
- Cut off all communication with the person
- Do not send any more money or respond to threats
- Take screenshots of messages, photos, video calls, and transactions
- Gather proof like bank transfer receipts, chats, call logs, and dating app profile URLs
- Report the scam to both legal authorities and the platform where it started
How to File a Cyber Complaint in India
1. Online via Cybercrime Portal
- Go to www.cybercrime.gov.in
- Select “Report Other Cybercrime” or “Women/Child-related Crime” (if applicable)
- Upload chat evidence, bank proof, and full details of the scam
2. Offline via Police Station
- File an FIR under the relevant IPC and IT Act sections
- Provide all documentation you have collected
- Request immediate action, especially if ongoing extortion or blackmail is involved
All major platforms have abuse reporting tools. Use them to get profiles removed:
- Shaadi.com, Jeevansathi, Bharat Matrimony: Contact their fraud and grievance officers directly
- Tinder, Bumble, TrulyMadly: Use in-app reporting and email customer care
- Include screenshot evidence and your full report
How to Protect Yourself from Future Scams
- Never send money or share financial details with someone you haven’t met in person
- Do a reverse image search on profile pictures
- Keep personal details like Aadhaar number, address, or PAN private
- Have video calls early to verify identity
- Inform family or friends before making any relationship-related commitments online
