Common Scams 
What Are Matrimonial Scams?
Marriage is one of life's most anticipated events. But many take advantage of people's desire for it and scam them horribly.
Y ou create a profile on a matrimonial website to search for a spouse. You meet someone whose profile and interests match yours. They claim to be a doctor planning to move to America. Conversations happen, and both of you get to know each other more. Sometime into the relationship, the person requests Rs 5 lakh for an emergency. They say that it's needed to make some necessary payment for their future together in America. You send the money to them because you like and trust them. But the scammer disappears after taking the money. You realise their intention was never to marry you.
The above was an example of a matrimonial scam. These usually take place on matrimonial websites or apps where people go to find their prospective future partners. Scammers who are looking for means to get money or other valuable things also create fake profiles. Because the whole basis of a matrimonial site is building a connection, a bond of trust is built, and that is when the scam takes place.
How Matrimonial Scams Work
1. Building a fake profile. A profile is created on a matrimonial website where one’s biodata is curated. This includes making up information about one’s education, family, career, place of stay, etc. Fake pictures are also created or stolen from social media or other platforms.
2. A connection is created. Profiles match, and a victim is chosen. Conversations take place, and an attachment is created. The victim is convinced that the other person loves them and genuinely cares for them.
3. The scam takes place. A request is made. An emergency has occurred. Money is immediately needed. Someone is sick. Extra money is required to build a future together.
After the first transaction, either more money keeps being asked for, or the scammer disappears. The profile is deleted. Any other contact is no longer available. You have been scammed.
Also Read: What Is The Dating App Scam?
These scams do not always have to involve just money. Often, personal data or sensitive information may be asked for as well, which, if spread, leaked or used, may prove to be harmful to the victim.
Why People Fall For Matrimonial Scams
1. Establishment of trust: Due to gradual conversations, a relationship gets built. Information is shared, and promises are made.
2. Hope and possibility of a future: Matrimonial sites are meant for marriages, and lending money to someone you have grown to trust or love, and who you see a future with, does not seem like a big problem.
3. Urgency and fear: The reasons that the scammer gives for money involve emergencies, health, pending loans or an obstacle for a better future.
How To Avoid Matrimonial Scams
1. Don’t immediately trust someone you met online.
2. Be careful with making financial transactions.
3. Verify the person’s identity.
4. Do not share personal information.
If you are scared, then talking to someone and taking advice is always recommended. There are online resources and spaces as well. For example, you can check the person’s profile on other social media platforms.
What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim To A Matrimonial Scam
1. Stop any further conversations with the scammer.
2. Block their profile to avoid further interaction.
3. Collect evidence beforehand, such as chats sent or requests made.
4. Gather transaction proof and receipts if any are made.
5. Contact the bank if an unwanted transaction has been made.
6. If there is blackmail involved, do not give in to the fear. Take screenshots of the threats instead.
7. Report to the police or the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
Remember, it is not your fault if you get involved in fraud like this. It is not the first thing on someone’s mind that their prospective partner can also just be scamming them. To avoid a scenario like this, one should be careful with their trust and information. Not everything said or seen online is true. A matrimonial website is a wonderful platform to find a lifelong partner but it is also convenient for scams to take place. Always be cautious.
Related Articles
