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Rishta scams: warning signs and what to do
Recognise money requests, pressure and inconsistent information. Learn how to stop contact and report a concern on Hamsar.
Be cautious about money requests
Do not send money for travel, hospital bills, gifts, visa papers or an account problem to someone you met through a rishta search. A convincing story or urgent deadline does not make a payment safe.
Notice pressure and changing details
Take care if someone repeatedly changes important details, demands secrecy, pressures you for photos or refuses reasonable questions. One missed call is not proof of dishonesty. Look at the overall behaviour and give yourself time to check information.
Do not rely on a badge alone
Read what the verification label actually says. An email check confirms access to an email address. A paid plan is a membership. Neither confirms a person’s intentions or promises a safe marriage.
Report the concern and stop contact
Use Report on the profile or conversation and explain what happened. Include dates or relevant messages where possible, without adding passwords or private documents. Use Block to stop contact. If you move to WhatsApp, its Report and Block tools are available there too; those messages are outside Hamsar.
If you have already sent money
Contact your bank or payment provider promptly and explain what happened. Keep transaction references and relevant messages. Do not send more money because someone promises a refund. You can also report the account on Hamsar.
These notes are general guidance for families. For a religious ruling, legal advice, or immigration advice, please speak with someone you trust in that field.
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