Delhi Police cyber cell arrests accused who used fake dating profiles and emotional manipulation to blackmail women, siphon money and access bank accounts
New Delhi: In a shocking case of cyber fraud and emotional exploitation, the Delhi Police have arrested a man accused of orchestrating a large-scale romance scam and honey trap racket, targeting women through fake online identities. The accused allegedly used manipulative tactics, including quick emotional bonding and the phrase “I love you”, to trap victims before blackmailing them for money.
The case mirrors the modus operandi depicted in the film Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl, where multiple identities were used to deceive women. However, in this real-life incident, the consequences have been far more damaging, with several victims reportedly losing significant amounts of money.
Accused Identified, Long History of Cyber Crimes
According to officials, the accused has been identified as Anand Kumar, a resident of West Bengal, who was actively involved in romance scams, honey trapping, and cyber blackmail for an extended period. Acting on inputs, the Delhi Police cyber wing tracked and arrested him after multiple complaints surfaced.
“The accused created fake profiles on matrimonial and dating platforms to gain victims’ trust, later using personal information to extort money,” police sources revealed.
Investigations indicate that the accused targeted multiple women, gaining access to their banking details and, in some cases, even draining family savings.
How the Romance Scam Operated
The fraudster reportedly used popular social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, along with matrimonial websites, to identify and connect with potential victims. After initiating contact, he would quickly build trust and establish an emotional connection within days.
Victims were often lured into sharing personal details under the pretext of sending gifts or planning visits. Soon after, the accused would switch tactics and begin blackmailing or demanding money, citing various emergencies.
Common Tricks Used by Cyber Fraudsters
Cyber experts warn that such fraudsters often rely on emotionally manipulative excuses, including:
- Claiming to be in urgent trouble
- Saying they are stranded in a foreign location
- Asking for money for visas, travel tickets, or medical emergencies
These tactics are designed to exploit trust and create panic, pushing victims to transfer money without verification.
Red Flags: When ‘I Love You’ Becomes a Warning Sign
Authorities highlight that rapid emotional escalation is one of the biggest warning signs. Fraudsters often use phrases like “I love you” within just 2–3 days of interaction to build false intimacy.
Profiles that appear too perfect, have model-like photos, or show minimal activity could also indicate fake accounts. Additionally, individuals claiming to be NRIs without verifiable details should be treated with caution.
How to Stay Safe from Romance Scams
Experts advise users to remain vigilant and follow these precautions:
- Avoid sharing personal or financial information online
- Always verify identities through video calls
- Do not send money to individuals met online without proper verification
- Immediately block suspicious profiles
- Report incidents to the National Cyber Crime Portal or the Sanchar Saathi platform
The Delhi Police have urged citizens to stay alert, emphasising that awareness is the first line of defence against cyber fraud.
