Mumbai Businessman Faces ₹2.14 Crore Loss in Investment Fraud on Dating Apps

Mumbai Businessman Loses Big to Dating App Scams

A tragic case unfolded in Mumbai as a local businessman, aged 46, was duped out of ₹2.14 crore in a cunning investment fraud. This scheme involved two women he met on various dating apps. The first, Carmen Anita, manipulated him into investing in crypto trading, while the second, Sharika Singh, lured him into foreign exchange investments.

Unraveling the Scam

Initially contacted by Anita in March, the businessman was persuaded to invest via a fraudulent website. He deposited ₹17 lakh, believing he was making gains as he saw $20,000 in his trading account. As trust built, he continued to invest. Next, a similar encounter with Singh led him to invest in foreign exchange, where he deposited another ₹40,000.

Falling for False Promises

• Profits vanish: When attempts to withdraw his funds arose, he was informed of hefty capital gains tax fees.
• False security: Despite investing over ₹20.8 lakh for the supposed crypto gains and ₹28.6 lakh for foreign exchange, access to his money remained forever out of reach.
• Realization of fraud: Facing continued demands for further payments to withdraw money, he contacted the cyber national helpline 1930 and lodged an FIR.

Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale

This unfortunate series of events underscores the pressing need for vigilance in the realms of online dating and investment. As this businessman found, seemingly promising opportunities may hide significant risks. Authorities have now registered an FIR, aiming to unravel this extensive fraud.