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Dehradun: Sextortion has emerged as the most significant weapon of cyber fraudsters in Uttarakhand, with criminals exploiting the fear of social disgrace to extort large sums from unsuspecting citizens. Between January 1 and October 15, 2026, the state recorded 316 cases of sextortion, resulting in victims losing approximately 3.5 crore rupees. In terms of total registered complaints, this illicit practice has outpaced other widespread digital offenses, including 203 cases related to online gaming, 188 linked to trading frauds, and 138 associated with investment scams.
Adults Aged 26 to 40 Form Largest Share of Victims
Official cybercrime statistics indicate that individuals between the ages of 26 and 40 are the most vulnerable target group for these syndicates. Out of the 316 reported cases in 2026, as many as 161 victims belonged to the 26 to 40 age bracket. Young adults in the 18 to 25 age group accounted for 135 cases, while 18 incidents involved individuals aged between 41 and 60 years. The remaining two cases involved victims from other age categories.
The wider cybercrime landscape reflects a similar vulnerability across this demographic. Across all categories of cyber offenses, 25,584 individuals in the state fell prey to online fraud by October 15, 2026. Among these victims were 20,238 men, 5,330 women, and 16 transgender persons. Adults between 26 and 40 years old again represented the largest segment, with 11,284 individuals affected during this period. Over the past five years, more than 72,785 people across Uttarakhand have been trapped by cybercriminals.
Modus Operandi Relies on Social Stigma and Unsolicited Calls
According to cyber police station officials, answering video calls from unknown telephone numbers and accepting online friendship requests from strangers remain the primary avenues through which victims are ensnared. Fraudsters systematically record explicit or compromising video footage and immediately threaten to circulate the clips among friends, family members, and social circles.
The dread of public defamation and social stigma frequently stops victims from approaching law enforcement agencies in the initial stages. Taking advantage of this hesitation and psychological panic, extortionists demand and extract substantial sums of money from targets who hope compliance will prevent disclosure.
Police Issue Advisory Urging Immediate Reporting on Helpline 1930
Senior Superintendent of Police, Special Task Force, Ajay Singh cautioned the public against interacting with unfamiliar accounts across digital platforms. He advised citizens never to accept incoming video calls from unknown numbers and to refrain from accepting friend requests from strangers on social media platforms.
The police chief emphasized that victims faced with blackmail must not succumb to fear or yield to monetary demands. Instead of remaining silent, targets should immediately lodge formal complaints by dialing the national cybercrime helpline number 1930.
