In yet another instance of emotional cyber exploitation, a 61-year-old woman from Hyderabad was defrauded of ₹35.23 lakh after receiving a WhatsApp call from a man identifying himself as Dr. Steve Rodriguez, a supposed urologist from South Manchester General Hospital, London.
The caller told her that her son — who lives in London — had been in a serious accident at the airport and was illegally admitted for emergency treatment because of missing identification documents.
Over the next six weeks, from August 8 to September 18, the distraught mother transferred the money in several instalments to cover what she believed were urgent medical expenses.
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Manipulated by Fear and Faith
Police said the woman’s maternal instinct and panic were exploited with precision. “The fraudster used urgency and compassion as tools,” said a Hyderabad Cybercrime official. “When she asked for photographs or proof, he deleted the chat and went silent — that’s when she realised it was a scam.”
Investigators are tracing the money trail, which is believed to have passed through multiple mule accounts before being routed abroad.
A Disturbing Trend of Emotional Cybercrimes
Officials say such “emotional distress scams” have surged across India, often targeting elderly parents of professionals working abroad. Scammers impersonate doctors, police officers, or embassy staff, claiming a loved one has met with an accident, been detained, or is in critical condition.
“These scams are harder to detect because they bypass logic and exploit empathy,” explained a cybercrime officer. “Victims often act before verifying, especially when they hear words like ‘your son is critical.’”
Police Appeal for Vigilance
The Hyderabad Police have urged citizens to verify any distress calls through direct family communication before making payments.
Victims of cyber fraud are advised to call 1930, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, or contact WhatsApp helpline 8712665171 for quick action.
