By News Karnataka

Copyright newskarnataka

Bengaluru: What started as a quest for love turned into a devastating financial trap for a 31-year-old man from the city’s Cantonment area. The victim, identified as Ajay (name changed), was duped of Rs 24 lakh by a woman posing as a prospective bride on a matrimonial website. The fraudsters lured him into investing in fake cryptocurrency platforms between July 12 and September 13, leaving him heartbroken and financially shattered.

The beginning of the trap

Ajay, who had registered on a matrimonial platform, received an expression of interest on July 12 from a profile named Tharani Srinivasan. Claiming to be a London-based business professional with roots in Tamil Nadu, Tharani expressed keen interest in marriage. Within days, she convinced him of her plans to travel to India to meet his family.

The two remained in constant contact through WhatsApp messages, audio calls, and even video interactions. The UK number used by Tharani appeared genuine, further cementing Ajay’s trust. She even used the display name Sree Devi Bala to maintain her online persona.

Cryptocurrency promise of wealth

Once a personal connection was firmly established, Tharani introduced the idea of cryptocurrency trading as a means to secure their financial future together. Presenting herself as financially savvy, she claimed significant profits were possible and introduced Ajay to individuals posing as crypto advisors.

Ajay was asked to open accounts on two platforms — m.bitcoin-on.com and m.bitcoin-av.com. Trusting her guidance, he began his first investments on July 22, initially transferring Rs 50,000 and Rs 80,000 to two bank accounts provided by the fraudsters.

Rising losses through repeated investments

Over the following weeks, Ajay was persuaded to make repeated transactions, eventually transferring Rs 24 lakh through 12 separate payments. The fake platforms displayed attractive returns, creating the illusion of growing wealth.

When Ajay attempted to withdraw his profits, the scammers demanded additional payments under the pretext of processing fees, taxes, and security deposits. Emotional manipulation and blackmail followed, pressuring him to transfer more money.

By early September, as suspicions grew, Ajay confronted Tharani. She stopped responding to calls and messages, and his access to the so-called investment platforms was blocked.

Police complaint and investigation

Realising the extent of the fraud, Ajay approached the East CEN Crime police station. He submitted detailed evidence including chat screenshots, transaction records, and contact details. Based on his complaint, police have registered a case under the Information Technology Act and Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (cheating).

Investigators have begun tracing the bank accounts and mobile numbers linked to the scam. Authorities suspect an organised cybercrime syndicate with operations across states and overseas involvement.

Cautionary tale for citizens

Cybercrime experts warn that matrimonial websites and dating platforms are increasingly being used by fraudsters to target unsuspecting individuals. Scammers often build emotional connections before introducing fraudulent investment schemes.

Police have urged citizens to exercise caution while interacting with strangers online, especially when financial matters are involved. They advise cross-verifying claims of overseas professionals, avoiding unregulated investment platforms, and reporting suspicious activity promptly.

The case highlights the dual vulnerabilities of emotional manipulation and financial fraud in the digital age. For Ajay, a hopeful journey to find a life partner has ended in betrayal and the loss of his hard-earned savings. For others, the incident serves as a reminder to remain vigilant in an era where love and scams can dangerously overlap.