A 63-year-old man from Salt Lake, West Bengal, fell victim to a sophisticated online scam, losing Rs 66.6 lakh after being deceived by a woman he met on a dating app. The scam began when the man, seeking companionship, connected with the woman who portrayed herself as a potential romantic partner. She gradually gained his trust and introduced him to an investment opportunity that promised lucrative returns. To further convince him, she added him to a Telegram group purportedly filled with other investors who shared positive testimonials about their financial gains.

The victim, lured by the prospect of high returns, transferred substantial sums of money into the investment scheme. However, as time passed and no returns were forthcoming, he realized he had been duped. The scam highlights the growing trend of cybercriminals exploiting online dating platforms to target vulnerable individuals seeking relationships. This incident underscores the importance of exercising caution and verifying the authenticity of online connections, especially when financial transactions are involved.

Authorities have been alerted to the scam, and investigations are underway to trace the perpetrators. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in digital spaces and the need for increased awareness and vigilance among users. As online dating continues to gain popularity, it is crucial for individuals to remain informed about common scams and adopt safe practices to protect themselves from financial fraud.