Conmen defrauding people through online dating apps, warns Interpol | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Conmen defrauding people through online dating apps, warns Interpol

ByNeeraj Chauhan
Jan 28, 2021 03:42 PM IST

The CBI, which is the nodal agency of Interpol in India, will alert the states about Interpol’s Purple Notice for awareness about the online dating scam

International police organisation Interpol has issued a notice to its 194 member countries, including India, saying conmen were defrauding people using online dating apps while asking their users to be sceptical and vigilant about getting into relationships through these applications.

Representational Image. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Representational Image. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

“Interpol’s Financial Crimes unit had received reports from around the world of this scam and is encouraging dating app users to be vigilant, be sceptical, and be safe when entering into online relationships. This has become especially important as people turn to online interactions during the Covid-19 pandemic,” an Interpol statement said.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.


The Central Bureau of Investigation, which is the nodal agency of Interpol in India, will alert the states about the International police organisation’s Purple Notice for awareness about the online dating scam. A Purple Notice is issued to seek or provide information on modus operandi, objects, devices, and concealment methods criminals use.

Also read | Pakistan left swipes dating apps including Tinder, says it’s immoral content

Interpol said the threat involves taking advantage of people’s vulnerabilities as they look for potential matches, and luring them into a sophisticated fraud scheme. “In the initial stages, an artificial romance is established via a dating app. Once communication becomes regular and a certain level of trust is established, criminals share investment tips with their victims and encourage them to join a scheme. Victims download a trading app and open an account, buy various financial products and work their way up a so-called investment chain, all under the watchful eye of their new ‘friend’.” The statement said they are made to believe they can reach Gold or VIP status. “As is often the case with such fraud schemes, everything is made to look legitimate. Screenshots are provided, domain names are eerily similar to real websites, and customer service agents pretend to help victims choose the right products. One day, however, all contact stops, and victims are locked out of the account. They’re left confused, hurt, and worried that they’ll never see their money again.”

Interpol has also provided tips to ensure safe online dating.

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Arvind Kejriwal News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On