20-year-old victim extorted through fake escort service; fraudster used stolen photos and fabricated reviews
Hyderabad– A 20-year-old resident of Yakutpura has fallen victim to a sophisticated honeytrap scam on Telegram, losing Rs.1,02,093 to fraudsters impersonating a woman offering paid sexual services.
Modus Operandi
The fraudster created an elaborate deception using:
- Stolen photographs of women
- Fake customer feedback and reviews
- Manipulated chat screenshots to create authenticity
- Impersonation of a woman offering escort services
Multiple Payment Demands
During the conversation, the scammer pressured the victim into making multiple payments under various deceptive pretexts:
- Advance booking fees
- Service security deposit
- Room reservation charges
- Refundable service fees
The Trap Unfolds
Trusting these claims, the victim transferred Rs.1,02,093 through UPI and bank transfers to multiple accounts provided by the fraudster.
When instructed to reach a hotel in Abids for the meeting, no one appeared. The fraudster then issued threats and demanded an additional Rs.10,000, exposing the extortion attempt.
Realizing he had been scammed, the victim filed a complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station.
Public Advisory from Hyderabad Police
Do not trust unknown Telegram/WhatsApp profiles offering paid companionship or sexual services
Fraudsters frequently use:
- Stolen images from social media
- Fake reviews and testimonials
- Edited screenshots to appear genuine
Beware of repeated requests for money in the name of:
- Booking fees
- Security deposits
- Manager charges
- Room reservations
- Any other advance payments
Never:
- Share personal details with unknown contacts
- Send money based on online promises
- Visit unknown locations based on online assurances
Growing Threat
The honeytrap scam has emerged as a prevalent cyber fraud method, exploiting victims’ vulnerabilities and using psychological manipulation to extract money. Fraudsters create elaborate fake identities and use social engineering techniques to build trust before extorting victims.
Young people, particularly those seeking companionship or adult services online, are especially vulnerable to such scams.
Legal Consequences
The accused will face charges under:
- IT Act provisions
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections for cheating, extortion, and criminal intimidation
- Cyber fraud regulations
How to Report
Citizens who encounter such scams should:
- Call: 1930 (National Cybercrime Helpline)
- Visit: www.cybercrime.gov.in
- Contact: Local Cyber Crime Police Station
The incident serves as a reminder that offers of paid companionship or sexual services on messaging platforms are frequently scams designed to extort money through fake profiles and manipulated content.
