Chandigarh | A cyber fraud racket that used fake social media profiles to lure victims with promises of religious solutions and later blackmailed them using an AI-generated objectionable video has been exposed. Three brothers have been arrested in connection with the case after they allegedly cheated a woman of ₹3.10 lakh.
Investigators said the accused created multiple fake profiles on Instagram and WhatsApp, introducing themselves as astrologers, spiritual practitioners and religious gurus. Through these accounts, they contacted people — particularly women — and gradually gained their trust by claiming they could solve personal problems through spiritual guidance and religious rituals.
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The arrested accused have been identified as Abhishek Bhargav, Akash Bhargav alias Aman, and Lucky Bhargav. All three are originally from Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan and were reportedly living in Mohali. They were arrested on March 9 and further investigation into the case is currently underway.
The case came to light after the victim’s father, Harminder Singh, lodged a complaint. According to the complaint, the woman had been contacted on social media by a person posing as a religious guru and astrologer who claimed he could resolve her personal difficulties through special prayers and rituals.
Initially, the accused spoke with the victim multiple times to gain her confidence. During these conversations, they gathered details about her personal life and problems. Later, she was persuaded to transfer money into different bank accounts in the name of conducting “ardas” and other religious remedies.
The investigation also revealed that the accused used voice-changing software to speak in a woman’s voice so that victims would not become suspicious. They also used foreign mobile numbers, particularly Canadian numbers, to avoid detection and to create the impression that they were associated with an international spiritual organisation.
Once the accused had collected sufficient personal information about the victim, they allegedly used artificial intelligence technology to create an objectionable video. They then threatened the woman that the video would be circulated on social media if she refused to pay money.
Fearing social humiliation and public embarrassment, the victim transferred money in several instalments. The transactions took place between 2023 and 2025, and a total of ₹3,10,192 was allegedly extorted from her before the matter was reported to the cyber crime authorities.
During searches conducted at the accused persons’ premises, investigators recovered several items believed to be linked to the operation. These included ₹3,49,100 in cash, $500 in US currency, 29 mobile phones, a laptop, a tablet, a dongle and 38 empty mobile phone boxes. Investigators believe the electronic devices could provide crucial clues about the gang’s methods and possibly lead to the identification of other victims.
During interrogation, the accused reportedly revealed that the fraud plan had been devised about two years ago by Akash Bhargav. After that, the three brothers allegedly began creating fake profiles under different identities and targeting people on social media.
Preliminary questioning has also suggested that the group may have cheated victims of nearly ₹40 lakh over the past two years. Investigators are now trying to determine how many more people may have been targeted and whether other individuals were involved in the network.
Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said,
“Cyber criminals are increasingly exploiting people’s faith and emotions through advanced technology. According to him, offenders often rely on social engineering tactics to build trust first and later use AI-generated content to threaten and blackmail victims.”
Authorities said forensic examination of the seized mobile phones and digital devices is currently underway. As the investigation progresses, officials expect more details about the functioning and possible expansion of the cyber fraud network to emerge.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
