Inside India’s Relationship Crisis: Meet the Detective Uncovering the Dark Side of Digital Love

In a society where love is increasingly mediated by screens and smartphones, the once-clear lines between intimacy and infidelity are rapidly blurring. From dating apps to secret social media chats, modern romance is facing a quiet but growing crisis—and when things go wrong, one man often gets the call.

 Surender Singh, a seasoned private investigator and certified cybersecurity expert, is on the frontlines of India’s new-age relationship problems. With over 1,200 investigations under his belt and more than a decade in the field, Singh has become the go-to expert for uncovering truths hidden behind digital façades.

 “Technology has changed how we love—and how we lie,” says Singh. “I’ve seen it all: fake profiles, secret affairs, online harassment. The truth isn’t always pleasant, but it’s necessary.”

---

The Post-Pandemic Spike in Infidelity

 Among the most concerning patterns Singh has observed is the rise in extramarital affairs, a trend that surged during and after the COVID-19 lockdowns. According to his estimates, such cases have increased by 40% in the last few years.

 “During the pandemic, people had more time online and more emotional distance at home,” he explains. “We saw a sharp uptick in people reconnecting with exes or forming emotional bonds with strangers over the internet.”

 His team uses a combination of digital forensics, surveillance, and behavioral analysis to confirm suspicions. From tracking call records to monitoring movement discreetly, Singh says these cases often prevent not just heartbreak—but legal and financial complications too.

---

Background Checks: The New Normal in Marriage

 If love has become complicated, marriage has become cautious. Singh reports that he now conducts 60 to 70 pre-marriage verification cases every month, especially in metropolitan areas.

 The investigations typically include background verification of employment, financial habits, social behavior, criminal history, and even previous relationships.

 “It’s not about suspicion anymore—it’s about clarity,” Singh says. “Families want to ensure they’re not walking into a trap. We’ve discovered everything from fake job offers to hidden addictions and even ongoing legal cases.”

 Once stigmatized, these checks are now viewed as practical, especially in arranged marriage setups. Singh believes this cultural shift reflects a growing understanding that trust needs to be built on facts, not just feelings.

---

 Cybercrime: The Hidden Threat in Relationships

 As a certified cybersecurity expert, Singh is also dealing with a worrying rise in digital threats—cases involving identity theft, online harassment, and cyber-cheating.

 “We’ve handled cases where someone’s photos were morphed and shared out of revenge, or where fake profiles were used to trap people emotionally or financially,” he says.

He emphasizes the need for digital literacy, particularly for women and teenagers. “Privacy settings, password hygiene, and being cautious with personal content—these aren’t just tech tips. They’re personal safety tools now.”

---

 The Emotional Side of the Truth

 While the work is rooted in evidence, Singh knows that every case carries emotional weight. That’s why he sees himself as more than just an investigator—he’s often a silent support system for people in distress.

 “Sometimes, clients come to us angry or confused. By the end, they leave with clarity, even if it’s painful,” he explains. “We don’t just show them the truth—we help them deal with it.”

 Whether it’s offering legal guidance, helping a client file a cybercrime report, or simply being a listening ear, Singh approaches each case with empathy and discretion.

---

A Shift in Public Perception

Gone are the days when hiring a detective was considered shameful. Today, Singh says people—especially women—are more empowered to seek help.

 “People now see private investigators as protectors of their emotional and digital safety. And that’s a good thing,” he says.

 In an era where betrayal can come in the form of a chat notification or a hidden second phone, Singh’s work is no longer just about catching cheaters—it’s about empowering people to reclaim control of their lives.