Matrimonial Site Frauds: The Impact on Trust and Finances in the Tech Talk

The effects of such scams go beyond emotional distress, with financial losses estimated to run into billions annually, contributing significantly to online financial fraud in India.

The evolution of the traditional matchmaking process over the past two decades has seen a marked shift towards online matrimonial platforms that offer a blend of traditional values and modern technology. Matrimonial sites have gained popularity by maintaining searchable databases of potential life partners. However, the rise of fraud on matrimonial websites has cast a shadow over the security of these platforms.

Classified as “intermediaries” under the IT Act, 2000, these sites are liable for fraud committed through their platforms. Unfortunately, experts say, these websites often lack strict Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, making them vulnerable to fraudulent activities. On one of these sites, ReturnByte found that it is quite easy to create a matrimonial profile by selecting just a few options like religion, height, body type, skin color, income and others.

So the modus operandi of online marriage fraud typically involves creating fake profiles with attractive descriptions, often portraying the person as settled or working abroad.

Fraudsters target gullible profiles, especially widows, divorcees or financially sound targets. After contacting via phone numbers and email addresses, scammers remove their profiles from the matrimonial site to continue interacting privately. Once trust is gained, scammers demand money for various pretexts, such as customs clearance, conversion fees or government clearances, and disappear after receiving the funds.

Recent cases from 2022 highlight the seriousness of the problem.

In one case, an Ahmedabad-based software engineer lost around one million rupees in cryptocurrencies after meeting a woman through marriage who turned out to be a fraud. Another case involved a woman from Delhi who was assaulted and cheated of over Rs 8,000 by a man she met through marriage. Similarly, it was reported that a 32-year-old woman was a victim of a scam when a merchant navy officer working in Sweden cheated her of Rs 6,000 on a matrimonial website.

To protect themselves from online marriage fraud, individuals are advised to take certain precautions. Like:

• Explore different matrimonial sites: Do a thorough research on the available platforms, check reviews and verified profiles.

• Profile Check: Monitor information on profiles, check information and check on social media platforms.

• Take it slow: Avoid rushing into decisions. genuine individuals do not require quick advances.

• Avoid financial transactions: Avoid making any kind of financial transactions until trust is established.

• Meet in person: Arrange to meet in a public place, preferably with a friend or family member if that’s convenient.

Additionally, individuals should be alert for red flags such as reluctance to share personal information, sudden requests for money transfers, or a rush to early marriage. The anonymity of online platforms requires a careful approach to prevent possible fraud. While the convenience of online matrimonial platforms has changed the relationship landscape, users need to remain vigilant to ensure a safe and authentic experience in finding a life partner.