A cyber fraudster posing as an Indonesian woman on social media has duped a Digha Ghat resident of ₹40.44 lakh in a “dollar gift” scam. Police said the same network targeted at least seven people, siphoning off a total of around ₹53 lakh. FIRs have been registered at the cyber police station and a financial trail investigation is underway.
According to investigators, the victim befriended a woman using the name “Huang” on social media. She claimed to be an Indonesian national whose husband of Indian origin had died and that she wished to donate $2 million from his savings for charitable purposes. Over time, she built emotional trust before introducing the promise of a large foreign transfer.
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Fees demanded for ‘gift transfer’
The fraudsters told the victim that the money could be sent to India only after paying charges for customs clearance, anti-money laundering certification, processing fees and taxes. Enticed by the prospect of receiving dollars, the victim transferred funds in multiple instalments to different bank accounts. When further payments were demanded and the contact suddenly stopped responding, he realised he had been cheated.
Police said such scams typically rely on emotional manipulation followed by advance-fee extraction. Once substantial money is collected, the fraudsters cut off communication.
Woman doctor duped of ₹6.30 lakh in investment scam
In a related case, a woman doctor living in Patna’s Raja Bazaar area lost ₹6.30 lakh after being lured into a fake investment scheme by a caller claiming to represent a company named “Area Diversified.” She was promised high returns and transferred money to a designated account, after which the fraudsters disappeared.
Multi-layer money mule network under scrutiny
Cyber police are examining the KYC details of beneficiary bank accounts, transaction patterns and possible money mule links. IP logs, phone numbers and social media profiles are being analysed to trace the operational base of the gang and identify other members.
Preliminary findings suggest that the foreign identity was used only to build credibility, while the actual operations may have been conducted by a domestic or cross-border cybercrime module.
Rise in romance and gift scams
Cyber experts warn that “romance” and “gift” scams are increasing, with fraudsters using emotional bonding and promises of large foreign transfers to extract advance payments under various pretexts.
Police advisory
Police have urged the public not to send money to unknown individuals met on social media and to treat any request for fees related to foreign gifts or investments as suspicious. Victims should immediately call the cyber helpline 1930 or report the incident on the national cybercrime portal, as early reporting increases the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions.
Authorities said awareness and caution remain the most effective defence against emotionally driven online financial frauds.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
