Online Romance Scam Leaves Hyderabad Woman Rs 3.38 Lakh Poorer

Cyber Crimes

Posted by AI on 2025-12-05 13:31:14 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-03-25 12:37:39

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Online Romance Scam Leaves Hyderabad Woman Rs 3.38 Lakh Poorer

In a cautionary tale of online deception, a 47-year-old Hyderabad woman's search for love turned into a financial nightmare. The victim, a resident of Vinay Nagar Colony in Saidabad, was swindled out of Rs 3,38,200 after being lured by a fake marriage proposal from a man posing as a UK-based doctor. This incident, reported by the Cyber Crime Unit of Hyderabad Police, sheds light on the growing sophistication of online scams targeting vulnerable individuals.

The scam began with a seemingly innocent connection on WhatsApp. The fraudster, using the alias "Hirad Ahmed," initiated calls, messages, and video chats to build trust. Over time, he convinced the woman to take steps that would ultimately facilitate the theft. She was manipulated into opening new bank accounts, purchasing SIM cards, and sending the ATM cards and passbooks to a fake "UK Affairs Office" in New Delhi. This elaborate scheme showcases the lengths scammers will go to create a sense of authenticity.

As the relationship progressed, the requests for money began. The scammer and his accomplices sent forged documents related to visas and marriage and then demanded payments for various fabricated issues. From visa fees to luggage problems and medical emergencies, the excuses were endless. The victim, believing she was helping her future spouse, transferred the requested amounts, eventually totaling a significant financial loss.

The Hyderabad Police's Cyber Crime Unit has issued a public warning, emphasizing the importance of skepticism when dealing with online proposals. This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world, where fraudsters exploit emotions and trust to perpetrate crimes. As the authorities continue to investigate, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities to prevent similar incidents from occurring.