A Gurugram-based consulting firm executive, Naman Aggarwal, fell victim to a cunning online scam after connecting with a woman named Ridhi Sharma on a matrimonial website. Believing her claims of living in London, Aggarwal was lured into investing in a cryptocurrency called Deuncoin. This “investment” turned into a nightmare as he was gradually tricked out of a staggering ₹38 lakh.
Aggarwal and Sharma connected on Jeevansaathi.com in November 2023. Sharma, posing as a Kolkata native residing in London, convinced Aggarwal to invest in Deuncoin. A trading account was created on a suspicious website (m.deuncoin.vip) shared via WhatsApp.
Initially, Aggarwal was asked to invest ₹10 lakh, with the promise of an equal amount being added by Sharma. However, things took a sinister turn when a fake “customer care” message claimed Sharma’s transfer was flagged as money laundering. To “unfreeze” his account, Aggarwal was pressured to deposit another ₹10 lakh within 24 hours.
Despite complying, Aggarwal’s requests to withdraw his funds were ignored. Instead, he was bombarded with demands for more money under various fabricated charges. Even after losing a colossal ₹38 lakh, the demands continued, solidifying his suspicions of a well-orchestrated scam.
Fighting Back
Aggarwal, realizing the fraudulent nature of the scheme, filed an FIR against Sharma and her accomplices under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code. The authorities are investigating the case and pursuing the perpetrators.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking online, especially on platforms like matrimonial sites. It is crucial to remain vigilant, exercise caution when dealing with strangers, and avoid investment opportunities presented through suspicious channels. The authorities are actively combating online fraud, but individual awareness and responsibility remain paramount in protecting oneself from such scams.
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