Bengaluru Resident Defrauded of ₹3.2 Million in Elaborate Online Dating Scheme

Post by : Raina Nasser

Bengaluru — Authorities are investigating a complex online romance fraud in which a 63-year-old Horamavu resident was conned out of ₹3.2 million after engaging with what he believed to be an exclusive matchmaking service. The victim registered the complaint with the East CEN Crime Police following weeks of deception.

The incident began when he received a WhatsApp message from an account purporting to act for a “high-society dating agency.” The interlocutors demanded a registration charge of ₹1,950 to proceed. After paying, the man was shown photographs of three women and asked to make a selection. He chose a woman who used the name ‘Ritika,’ and then entered into regular WhatsApp chats and video calls.

Over time, another person identifying herself as ‘Priti’ joined the exchanges, saying she would handle travel and other arrangements. The victim was repeatedly asked to send further sums for verification, coordination and travel-related expenses. He routed money through several bank accounts and ultimately transferred a total of ₹3.2 million. When he declined additional payments, the suspects allegedly resorted to threats, prompting the police complaint.

A formal case has been filed under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for cheating, impersonation and fraud. Investigators are examining the bank accounts used and following financial trails across multiple states.

Officials say this episode reflects a rising pattern of online dating frauds, where organised actors exploit messaging platforms, manipulated images, and voice-cloning to fabricate convincing personas. Comparable schemes have been recorded in other cities, including Delhi, where users have lost money and suffered emotional harm.

Cybersecurity specialists caution that many scams now employ AI-generated profiles, fraudulent agency fronts and psychological pressure to extract funds. Targets are often persuaded to make payments on false pretences such as verification fees or travel costs.

Bengaluru Police have issued guidance urging the public not to transfer money to individuals or entities offering dating or matchmaking services via WhatsApp or similar apps. They advise verifying services through official websites and government-registered portals before sharing funds.