The person says they are a doctor abroad and will come to India to marry me. Is it a scam?
This is one of the most common romance scam scripts: a doctor, surgeon or engineer working abroad – often in a war zone, with the UN, or on a contract – who wants to leave everything and come to India for you. The next step is almost always a problem that only your money can solve: a ticket, a blocked account, customs duty on a parcel, or a fine at the airport.
The person usually cannot video call because of "security rules", sends very long, emotional messages and talks about a shared future very early. Sometimes a second person appears – a "courier agent", a "customs officer" or a "lawyer" – to ask for the money so that the lover stays clean.
Signs to watch for
- The profession is prestigious and the location makes meeting impossible.
- The messages are long, flowery and sometimes in a strange English that does not match the claimed background.
- A reverse image search finds the photos under another name, often a real doctor or model.
- A parcel, gift or trip appears and gets "stuck" – and a fee is needed.
- Any request for money, however small, to make the meeting happen.
Frequently asked questions
- They have not asked for money yet. Could it still be a scam?
- Yes. The money request can come after weeks or months, once you trust the person fully. Check the photos and messages now, before you are emotionally invested.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you are talking to? Veritaza checks the photos, messages, mobile number, email ID, name and ID card, for ₹289.
Verify a person