As an advocate of the Supreme Court of India, I feel compelled to raise awareness about the increasing incidents of crime associated with dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and matrimonial platforms like Shaadi.com. These platforms, while offering opportunities for companionship, have also become breeding grounds for fraud, extortion, and exploitation. It is crucial to exercise caution when using these services.

Common Crimes on Dating Apps

Catfishing and Identity Theft: Fake profiles using stolen or fabricated identities to deceive users.

Extortion and Blackmail: Scammers lure individuals into compromising situations, then demand money to prevent the release of private information or photos.

Financial Fraud: Perpetrators trick victims into sending money for emergencies, investments, or fake business opportunities.

Harassment and Stalking: Continuous unwanted contact or threatening behavior after a match or meeting. Sexual Assault: In some cases, meetings arranged through these platforms have led to sexual exploitation or assault.

Precautions to Take

Verify Profiles: Cross-check the information provided in the profile on other social media platforms. Be cautious of profiles with limited information or too-good-to-be-true details.

Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not share sensitive information like your home address, financial details, or explicit photos.

Meet in Public Places: For initial meetings, always choose a public, well-populated location. Inform a friend or family member about your plans.

Beware of Red Flags: Be wary of individuals who avoid video calls, refuse to meet in person after extended communication, or ask for money.

Use Platform Security Features: Utilize in-app features such as profile verification, blocking, and reporting suspicious activity.

How to Identify Fake Profiles and Frauds

Inconsistencies in Information: Discrepancies between what a person says and what is on their profile. Hesitation to Meet or Video Call: Reluctance to engage in live interaction often indicates a fake profile.

Too Perfect or Generic Profile Photos: Photos that look professionally taken or appear too polished may have been stolen from elsewhere.

Pressure to Move Off the Platform: Scammers often try to move the conversation to other platforms, where it is harder to trace them.

Requests for Money: Any financial request, especially early in the interaction, is a strong indicator of fraud.

Legal Recourse: Filing a Complaint

If you become a victim of any crime on these platforms, it is crucial to report the incident to the police. Under Indian law, crimes such as extortion, identity theft, harassment, and fraud are punishable offenses. Victims can file an FIR at their local police station or approach the Cyber Crime Cell. Additionally, most platforms offer mechanisms to report and block fraudulent accounts, which should be utilized immediately.

In conclusion, while dating apps and matrimonial sites offer legitimate opportunities for connections, users must remain vigilant to protect themselves from potential risks. By taking necessary precautions and being aware of common scams, you can enjoy a safer online experience.

Stay informed, stay safe.

In the next series read

How to file FIR?

Penalties for cybercrime?