The world is less lonely with good friends.

Yet sometimes, even our closest confidantes could be a cause of heartbreak and frustration.

In a tale that reads like a cautionary fable for the digital age, a woman's trust was exploited, which led to a massive loss.


The story should be a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within our interconnected world, especially for those who place their trust in long-standing friendships.

A woman with physical disabilities was cruelly deceived by one of her friends for 20 years.

Sumaiya Khurram, a 33-year-old woman, concocted an elaborate catfishing scheme against the victim.


Khurram posed as a 'pretty boy' named Etesham Khan, who professed his love for the victim through instant messaging.

For over 20 months, Khurram, through her disguise, persuaded the victim to make 52 payments totalling £90,000 (approximately $180,000).

The reason? The fake lover needed treatment costs for a supposedly severe blood cancer.


Khurram knew her victim's vulnerabilities and past experiences well, hence the intricate plan.

Through the messaging app WhatsApp, Khurram sent messages filled with declarations of love alongside pictures of a young Asian man.

She even engaged in intimate conversations, manipulating her friend's inexperience and longing for companionship.

The scam was eventually uncovered, and Khurram faced justice at Birmingham Crown Court.

She was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison after pleading guilty to fraud.

The judge condemned the scam as 'one of the most despicable' he had seen, highlighting the calculated exploitation Khurram did to her victim.


For our readers, this story is a harrowing reminder of the importance of vigilance in the digital world.

Here are some tips so you can protect yourself from similar heart-wrenching scams:

• Verify identities: If you meet someone online who seems too good to be true, use video calls to confirm their identity. Be wary of any excuses for not being able to meet in person or through video call.
• Guard your finances: Never send money to someone you have only met online. Scammers often create elaborate tales to tug heartstrings.
• Seek a second opinion: If you're developing a relationship online, talk to friends and family about it. They could offer a fresh perspective and spot red flags you may have missed.
• Be cautious with personal information: Do not share personal details with someone you have not met in person.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your gut, and don't ignore the warning signs.
• Report suspicious behaviour: If you suspect you are being catfished, report the individual to the platform you're using and consider contacting the authorities.

The emotional and financial toll of being catfished can be devastating, as seen in this tragic case.

It's essential to approach online friendships and relationships with caution.

While the internet can be a place of genuine connection, it can also be a hunting ground for scammers with malicious intent.
Have you or someone you know ever encountered a catfish online? How did you deal with it? Your insights could help others avoid falling into similar traps, so share them with us in the comments section.