Indian Techie Falls Victim to Forex Trading Scam via Dating App, Loses INR 4.5 Million

A software professional from Hyderabad, India, fell victim to a forex investment scam, losing INR 4.5 million after meeting a woman on a dating App. Over just 15 days, the fraudster, posing as a doctor, lured the 36-year-old victim into investing in forex trading with promises of high returns.

The victim, who received a connection request from a woman named Vinni alias Vineetha Agarwal in January, was convinced of her currency pairs and forex trading scheme after she claimed to be a doctor planning to open her own hospital. Vinni claimed to be earning significant profits through forex trading and directed the victim to a website, www.finaltofx.com, where she guided him step-by-step through the investment process.

Encouraged by the profits displayed on the platform, the victim initially invested INR 50,000 and gradually increased the amount. Despite expressing financial concerns, he was reassured by Vinni, who encouraged him to borrow money, promising quick repayment through his trading profits. The victim withdrew mutual funds, took personal loans, and borrowed from family members to increase his investments.

The scam unraveled in February when the victim attempted to withdraw his funds. He was informed of a 20% exchange fee, which he paid, only to lose contact with Vinni immediately after. The fake trading website became inaccessible, leaving the victim with no recourse.

The Cyberabad Cybercrime Police have opened an investigation into the incident and are working to trace the accused. Authorities have issued a strong warning against the rising trend of investment fraud via dating apps and urged citizens to exercise caution, verify credentials, and only invest through RBI-approved platforms or registered Demat accounts.