Hyderabad: A Tinder investment fraud cost a victim Rs 3.35 crore after a scammer built an online relationship and persuaded him to invest through a purported advertising platform.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau registered a case and launched an investigation. Officials started efforts to identify the accused and trace the money trail. TGCSB also warned citizens about fraudsters who used dating and social media platforms to develop emotional relationships before targeting victims financially.
In the latest case, the fraudster approached the victim through Tinder and claimed to be a foreign national. Subsequently, their communication moved to WhatsApp, where the scammer gradually developed a relationship with the victim.
After gaining his trust, the fraudster introduced him to what was presented as a Facebook/Meta-linked advertising investment programme. The scammer then persuaded him to download an application for investing money.
Tinder investment fraud used fake profits
The Tinder investment fraud initially appeared profitable because the platform displayed fabricated returns on the victim’s investments. Believing the investment platform was genuine, the victim continued putting in larger amounts. Over nearly 55 days, he transferred a total of Rs 3.35 crore into the purported investment platform.
However, the problem surfaced when the victim tried to withdraw his money. The fraudsters demanded further payments and claimed his “credit points” had fallen. The additional demand raised his suspicion. Consequently, he realised that the investment operation was fraudulent.
TGCSB said online investment fraudsters often relied on fake identities and emotional manipulation to win victims’ confidence. They also used fabricated success stories and fake trading applications that displayed artificial profits.
The Bureau cautioned people against trusting strangers they met through dating applications, matrimonial platforms or social media. In particular, citizens should remain cautious when online acquaintances quickly introduced investment opportunities.
Tinder investment fraud prompts TGCSB warning
Following the Tinder investment fraud case, TGCSB advised citizens not to invest money solely on recommendations made by online acquaintances. The Bureau also warned people against downloading investment applications through links shared by strangers. Such applications could form part of fraudulent investment operations designed to display fake returns and encourage larger payments.
Citizens who suspected cyber financial fraud were advised to immediately contact the 1930 cybercrime helpline. They were also asked to report incidents through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. TGCSB said early reporting could improve the chances of blocking fraudulent transactions and recovering money.
The Bureau’s warning covered approaches through dating apps, matrimonial services and social media platforms. Fraudsters could first establish personal relationships before shifting conversations towards financial investments.
TGCSB Director Shikha Goel cautioned people against allowing online relationships to expose their finances. “A relationship built online should never become a gateway to your finances,” she said.