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Amid rising cyber threats targeting personal privacy, Sambhal police have busted a cyber fraud gang that hacked mobile phones to steal women’s private photos and videos, then blackmailed victims for money. Two accused have been arrested, while three remain at large.
The case came to light after a woman from Asadvat area filed a complaint alleging extortion. She claimed fraudsters accessed her phone remotely, stole intimate images, and demanded ₹20,000 via UPI to prevent leaks.
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Modus Operandi: Hack, Steal, Extort
According to police, the gang used phishing links and malicious apps to hack victims’ phones. Once inside, they stole private photos/videos from galleries and WhatsApp.
Messages like “Pay or your photos go viral to contacts/family” followed, with UPI IDs for quick payments. Victims paid ₹5k-50k to avoid humiliation.
The gang targeted women aged 20-35 via social media traps—fake friend requests led to infected links.
Raid Yields Clues, 2 Arrested
Acting on cyber cell tip-off, Kotwali Dehat team raided Asadvat hideout. Seized:
- 5 hacked phones with victim data
- UPI transaction records (₹8 lakh)
- Hacking tools, phishing scripts
- Blackmail chat logs
Arrested: Asad (22), Shahrukh (25)—local techies running the racket 6 months. Mastermind Danish and 2 others fled.
Links to Larger Network
Interrogation revealed Dubai-Georgia handlers supplied tools/training. Funds routed via Rajasthan mule accounts.
STF assisting to trace interstate links. Victims from Sambhal, Amroha, Badaun identified—counselling offered.
Police Warning: Protect Your Data
SP Anukriti Singh advised:
- Enable 2FA on phones/apps
- Avoid unknown links/files
- Use strong passcodes, app locks
- Report blackmail to 1930 immediately
“No shame in reporting—police protect victims anonymously.”
FCRF notes sextortion up 300%—hacked phones now prime source.
Probe ongoing; more arrests likely. Victims urged to come forward.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
