Torres Scam Exposed: ₹22 Crore Fraud and Lessons in Financial Vigilance
Introduction India’s financial sector faced another jolt with the exposure of the Torres Scam, a sophisticated financial fraud that resulted
In today’s digital world, relationships often start online — but sadly, so do many scams. A rising number of Indians are falling prey to dating scams and sextortion frauds, where emotional connections are weaponized to steal money. Knowing the tactics of these fraudsters is crucial to protect yourself and your loved ones.
These scams are often run by organized cybercrime groups, small gangs, or even individuals posing as charming singles on dating apps, social media platforms, or matrimonial sites.
Fraudsters usually have fake profiles with attractive photos.
They pretend to be NRIs, professionals, or even army officers to gain quick trust.
Many scammers operate out of cybercrime hubs in India and neighboring countries.
The entire scam is based on building emotional trust and manipulating feelings:
Step 1: Scammer sends a friend request or matches on a dating site.
Step 2: Regular chats, sweet talks, and fake promises of marriage or meeting soon.
Step 3: After weeks/months of grooming, the scammer creates a fake emergency — like needing money for hospital bills, visa issues, customs clearance, gifts, etc.
Step 4: In sextortion cases, they may coerce victims into sharing intimate photos/videos, then blackmail them for money.
Step 5: Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears — or demands more using threats.
Deepfake technology to create fake videos/calls.
Social engineering to pressure or emotionally manipulate victims.
Use of fake websites, courier companies, or bank accounts.
(Source: India Today Cybercrime Report, Dec 2024)
Thousands of victims across India, especially in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
In just 2024, Indian authorities recorded over ₹450 crore lost to dating and sextortion scams.
Victims range from young professionals to retirees — no age group is immune.
Emotional trauma is often worse than financial loss, leading to anxiety, depression, and in some cases, tragic suicides.
🛑 Red Flags to Watch For:
Overly fast emotional attachment.
Requests for money, no matter how convincing the story.
Refusal to meet in person or on live video.
Push for secrecy about your relationship.
✅ Smart Moves:
Verify identities independently before trusting anyone online.
Never send intimate photos/videos to someone you haven’t met.
If asked for money, stop immediately — talk to a trusted friend or authority.
Report suspicious profiles to the platform and cybercrime helplines.
Cybercrime Reporting in India: Dial 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in
No matter how genuine someone sounds, never transfer money to people you meet online — especially if you haven’t met them in real life.
Anyone asking for urgent money in the name of love, emergencies, or gifts is almost always a scammer. Stay vigilant. Protect your heart — and your wallet.
Closing Note:
The rise of dating and sextortion scams reminds us that even personal relationships can be exploited online. Awareness is your best armor. Share this article with friends and family — together, we can build a safer digital India.
Introduction India’s financial sector faced another jolt with the exposure of the Torres Scam, a sophisticated financial fraud that resulted
Background of the Alleged Fraudster Name: Thirumalaiammal My Ramalingam (aka T.M. Ramalingam) Location: Ganapathipalayam, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu Allegation: Repeat
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