Dating Scam Alert:— In a growing trend of ‘Tinder scams’ across major cities, a civil service aspirant from Delhi found himself saddled with a staggering ₹ 1.20 lakh bill after a date with a woman he met on a dating app. This incident highlights a prevalent and underreported form of fraud where victims are coerced into paying exorbitant amounts during dates.
A Growing Scam
The scam typically involves meeting a woman on popular dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, or OKCupid. The woman quickly shares her WhatsApp number, and a date is arranged. The victim is then directed to meet at a specific Metro station, from where they proceed to a cafe or pub chosen by the woman.
Modus Operandi
Once at the cafe, the woman places the order, often choosing items not listed on the menu. In some cases, she might fabricate an emergency and leave abruptly. The victim, attempting to make a good impression, rarely suspects any wrongdoing until the bill arrives. To his shock, the bill is significantly higher than anticipated. On protesting, the victim is often threatened by cafe staff or bouncers, leaving him with no option but to pay.
Victim’s Dilemma
Most victims refrain from reporting these incidents to the police, fearing exposure to their families about using dating apps. Multiple accounts on social media platforms like Reddit detail similar experiences, although NDTV could not verify the authenticity of each post. These stories, however, suggest a common method used by scammers to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
Advice to the Public
Authorities and cybersecurity experts advise the public to exercise caution when arranging dates through dating apps. It is recommended to meet in well-known, reputable places and to be wary of any unusual behavior or requests. Awareness and vigilance can help prevent falling prey to such scams.
Conclusion
The rise of ‘Tinder scams’ in major cities underscores the need for greater awareness and caution among dating app users. While these platforms offer opportunities to meet new people, they also present risks that users must navigate carefully. The Delhi incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers and the importance of staying alert in such situations.
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