Staying safe when you meet a match online

Most people on matrimony sites are genuine. A few are not, and the scams they run follow familiar patterns. Knowing the signs protects you and your family.

Warning signs

• They ask to move to WhatsApp or another app straight away.
• They're always overseas, in the army, on a ship or on an oil rig, and can never video call.
• The story escalates quickly to love, marriage plans or a shared future.
• Sooner or later there's an emergency: a medical bill, customs fees for a parcel, a visa, a "business opportunity".
• Photos look like a model shoot, or a reverse image search finds them under another name.

Simple habits that help

• Keep conversations on the platform until you've had a video call.
• Don't share your NIC number, home address or workplace early on.
• Never send money, gift cards or bank details to someone you haven't met.
• Involve your family. A proposal that's discussed between parents is much harder to fake.
• Prefer verified profiles.

Protecting your photos and details

On Muthumina you decide who sees each photo: everyone, members only, or only people you approve. Phone numbers and email addresses are shared only when both sides accept an interest. Keep these settings until you're sure about someone, and look for the verified badge, which means our team has checked the member's ID.

If you or they live abroad

Scammers often pretend to be Sri Lankans working overseas, and they also target people who are. Be extra careful with anyone who can't video call, keeps postponing a meeting with your family, or asks you to pay for travel or documents.

Meeting for the first time

Meet somewhere public, tell someone where you'll be, and arrange your own transport. Many families prefer the first meeting to include parents or relatives.

If something feels wrong

Trust that feeling. Stop replying and contact us so we can look into the profile. If you've already sent money, contact your bank immediately and make a complaint to the police. For more, see our safety tips.