The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau has issued a public advisory warning citizens about a rising trend of “Marriage Cum Investment” frauds after a reported case in which a victim in the state allegedly lost ₹7.7 crore to fraudsters who combined a bogus matrimonial approach with a fake investment scheme.
Officials said the case highlights how fraudsters build trust through online matrimonial conversations before luring victims into investing in fake trading or cryptocurrency platforms. These fraudulent platforms initially display fake profits to gain confidence and then block access once large sums are deposited.
How the Scam Works
According to investigators, the fraud typically begins on matrimonial or social networking platforms. Scammers pose as potential partners, gain the victim’s trust through prolonged conversations, and later introduce a “Special Investment Opportunity” The victims are shown fake returns to encourage larger deposits. Once significant funds are invested, the scammer disappears and the website or app becomes inaccessible.
Investigators have traced transactions involving multiple intermediary accounts, indicating that the stolen money is quickly moved across digital wallets and shell bank accounts to avoid detection.
Local Pattern Not an Isolated Case
Cyber officials say that Telangana has witnessed several high value financial cybercrimes this year, including crypto and trading scams involving both individual and organized crime networks. Victims across Hyderabad and other districts have reported losing from a few lakh rupees to several crores in similar schemes.
The bureau has increased digital surveillance, partnered with major banks, and set up a rapid response cyber help desk to freeze suspicious accounts quickly after a complaint is filed.
Bureau’s Advice to Citizens
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau issued a detailed public advisory with the following key points:
- Verify identity: Always confirm the authenticity of individuals met through matrimonial or social platforms.
- Avoid emotional manipulation: Do not trust people who quickly propose marriage or financial collaboration online.
- Do not invest blindly: Never transfer funds to unknown or unverified investment apps or accounts.
- Check platform legitimacy: Ensure that trading or investment portals are registered and regulated.
- Preserve all evidence: Keep transaction records, chat screenshots, and messages for investigators.
- Report immediately: File complaints with the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau or local cyber police stations.
What Victims Should Expect
When large financial losses are reported, the cyber bureau conducts technical analysis using digital forensics, bank transaction trails, and cooperation from payment gateways. Early reporting remains the most effective way to recover funds and apprehend the fraudsters. Officials also emphasize that sharing personal documents or bank details online can lead to identity theft and further financial damage.
Growing Need for Public Awareness
Authorities warn that “Marriage Cum Investment” scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, blending emotional manipulation with financial fraud. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau plans to intensify awareness drives in schools, colleges, and social media platforms to educate people about online safety, identity verification, and responsible digital interaction.
Officials urge citizens to remain cautious, skeptical of unrealistic investment offers, and report any suspicious online activity immediately.
