New Delhi: Artificial intelligence is no longer confined to the tech industry — it has become the most dangerous weapon behind modern romance scams. Global cyber syndicates are using AI to create fake online identities, luring lonely individuals into emotional relationships before draining their money and stealing personal data.
Global cyber-tracking assessments indicate that online fraud and digital crimes caused losses of nearly ₹1.33 lakh crore in 2024, with romance scams accounting for a significant share. Estimates suggest that one in seven adults worldwide has, at some point, been exposed to fraudulent “digital relationships”.
Deepfakes, Data and the Illusion of Intimacy
Cyber experts say these scams have surged sharply since the pandemic, peaking around occasions like Valentine’s Day. Criminals now deploy deepfake photos and videos, AI-based voice cloning and auto-generated chat scripts to build highly convincing profiles — wiping out traditional red flags such as poor grammar or awkward language.
Investigators note that scammers typically shift conversations quickly from dating apps to private messaging platforms to evade monitoring. Rapid emotional bonding, insistence on secrecy and sudden financial requests are among the strongest warning signs.
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Organised Networks Behind the Profiles
While victims often believe they are dealing with a lone fraudster, ground intelligence reveals a different reality. Most cases are linked to organised cyber networks. Call-centre-style scam hubs are believed to be operating in parts of Southeast Asia, where trained operators follow scripted emotional conversations to push targets into fake investments, medical emergencies or crypto fraud schemes.
Former IPS officer and renowned cybercrime expert Triveni Singh explains,
“Today’s romance scams are driven not by emotion but by data and algorithms. Criminals first study your digital behaviour and then tailor conversations accordingly. If someone builds emotional intimacy too fast and pressures you for money or confidential information, that’s the moment to stop.”
India as a High-Risk Zone
India has also seen a sharp rise in such cases. Experts say a common tactic involves gaining trust through small transactions before extracting much larger sums. Many victims hesitate to report incidents due to embarrassment or social pressure, keeping the true scale hidden.
International crackdowns have led to the shutdown of thousands of fake domains and IP addresses, alongside hundreds of arrests across Africa and Asia and the recovery of crores in illicit funds. Despite these efforts, officials admit that law enforcement continues to struggle to keep pace with the speed of AI-driven crime.
Cyber specialists advise the public to follow three basic rules: never send money to online acquaintances, independently verify identities even during video calls, and report suspicious activity immediately to cyber helplines or local police.
The message from investigators is unambiguous: in the world of digital romance, caution — not haste — remains the strongest line of defence.
