Endpoint Protection

 View Only

Dummy Proposals on Matrimonial Sites Can Become 419ish 

Jul 15, 2009 06:34 PM

Matrimonial (MM) sites provide a platform for people to search, match and interact with a prospective bride or groom. However, even this service has not been spared by spammers who use fraudulent means to cheat users.

We will be discussing how a simple proposal can turn into a trap and fool a prospective bridegroom into disclosing personal details. We know that most MM sites will permit the delivery of personalized messages only to premium members (paid customers). However, we observed that one of the sites provided this type of membership free of charge—possibly in consideration of the user also availing of its free email service. In all probability, the MM sites may also grant such discounts in order to grow their popularity graph. Obviously, with so much liberty granted, spammers will not wait for an invitation.

This process starts with the so-called “interest” shown in the user’s profile, with familiar dating language being used. The subject lines for these emails are similar to those of dating spam. Examples are shown below:



imagebrowser image



These lines can be quite enticing and a recipient may reply to the “interested” party. Spammers see a potential victim stepping right into their trap. Immediately we see their fraudulent ways advance into action with a 419 scam-story email, such as the one below:



imagebrowser image




Curious users may easily believe in these scam stories and reveal their personal details. There is also a possibility that the user may initiate a money transaction, falling prey to all types of fake scam stories. Considering the modus operandi of 419 scammers, users should avoid revealing any personal information, especially anything related to their bank accounts. We also strongly recommend that users read the security measures provided by matrimonial sites to help users safely find their soul mate (unfortunately, the links to these extremely helpful tips are always shown at the bottom of the main page for most sites and not easily noticeable).

Note: Thanks to Ankur Akash for contributed content.

Statistics
0 Favorited
0 Views
0 Files
0 Shares
0 Downloads

Tags and Keywords

Related Entries and Links

No Related Resource entered.