In today’s digital age, the internet has transformed how we connect, communicate, and even fall in love. Unfortunately, it has also become a breeding ground for various types of online scams and frauds. From phishing emails and fake tech support calls to fraudulent investment schemes and social media impersonation, cybercriminals are exploiting every digital platform to trick unsuspecting victims. E-commerce frauds promise unbelievable deals on non-existent products, while fake job offers lure people into sharing sensitive information or paying upfront for bogus opportunities. Online dating platforms are also increasingly misused, where scammers build emotional connections to defraud people over time.
One particularly insidious form of online fraud gaining traction is matrimony scam. As matrimonial platforms become more popular for finding life partners, scammers have found a new avenue to target emotionally vulnerable individuals. They often create convincing fake profiles, pose as successful professionals, and build a rapport over weeks or months. Once trust is established, the scammer may spin stories of financial distress, investment opportunities, or urgent family emergencies, ultimately coaxing the victim into sending digital money. In more elaborate cases, victims are duped into planning real weddings with non-existent partners, losing not only money but also emotional peace and social trust.
With rising incidents each year, it’s crucial to understand the signs of matrimony fraud and learn how to protect yourself before it’s too late.
In this blog, we dive deep into what a matrimony fraud is, how to spot one, and what you can do to protect yourself.
💔 What is Matrimony Fraud?
Matrimony fraud involves using false identities or intentions to deceive someone on a marriage platform. It can involve emotional manipulation, identity theft, and financial exploitation.
Unfortunately, India has become a hotspot for such crimes. With users trusting platforms like Shaadi.com, Bharat Matrimony, and Jeevansathi, scammers have found a perfect playground for online matrimony fraud.
Here is one type of matrimony scam –
🔍 Common Types of Matrimonial Scams
🧑💼 1. Fake Marriage Profile
Scammers create fake profiles using stolen photos and lies about their profession, salary, or location. A common tactic is posing as a wealthy NRI doctor, engineer, or army officer.
👰♂️ 2. Fake Groom/Bride Profile
These scams go beyond just chatting online. Scammers may even agree to an engagement or marriage ceremony—only to disappear after receiving dowry, jewelry, or money for “preparations.”
🌐 3. Matrimony Website Scam
Sometimes, entire websites or pages can be cloned to look like popular platforms. Scammers use bots to send mass interest requests, luring victims into financial traps.
📱 4. Online Matrimony Fraud
Victims are targeted through emotional bonding—then asked for money under fake pretenses like medical emergencies or visa issues. These are among the most reported matrimonial fraud cases in India.
📰 Real Matrimonial Scam Cases in India
📍 Delhi NRI Groom Scam (2022)
A 32-year-old woman lost ₹25 lakh to a man who claimed to be a cardiologist from the UK. He disappeared after asking for money to “release gifts” stuck at customs.
📍 Pune Army Officer Impersonator (2023)
A fraudster impersonated an Indian Army Major and duped several women. He even wore fake medals on video calls to appear genuine.
📍 Bangalore IT Professional Scam (2021)
A software engineer lost ₹10 lakh to a fake investment banker from the US she met on a matrimonial app. He vanished once the money was transferred.
🚩 How to Identify a Fake Matrimonial Profile
A fake matrimonial profile is a false identity created on a matrimonial website or app with dishonest intentions. These profiles are often crafted using stolen photos, fake names, made-up backgrounds, and false professions to lure genuine users.
Here are red flags you shouldn’t ignore:
- Too good to be true: lavish claims about wealth, looks, or job
- Reluctance for video calls or in-person meetings
- Request for money (visa issues, hospital bills, customs clearance)
- Inconsistent details and vague family background
- Recent or incomplete profile with minimal info
- Urgency to marry or pressure to commit quickly
- Photos that look edited or taken from the web (use Google Reverse Image Search!)
🛡️ What to Do If You Suspect a Marriage Scam
- Report the profile on the matrimonial platform
- Block the contact immediately
- File a complaint on the official Cyber Crime Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in
- Call the national cyber helpline: 1930
- Visit the nearest cybercrime police station
⚖️ Legal Protection Against Matrimony Cybercrime
Indian laws provide legal recourse for victims of matrimony cybercrime, under:
- Section 420 IPC – Cheating and dishonest inducement
- Section 66D of the IT Act – Impersonation using communication technology
- Section 406 IPC – Criminal breach of trust
Convicted scammers can face up to 7 years in jail and hefty fines.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Marriage is a lifelong commitment—don’t rush into it blindly. With matrimonial scam India numbers on the rise, awareness is your best defense. Always double-check backgrounds, avoid money transfers, and never let emotions cloud your judgment.
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Remember:
A real relationship won’t ask you for money, secrecy, or urgency. Trust, but verify.