Cyber Crime
Elderly Ayurvedic Doctor Falls Victim to Sextortion Scam, Loses Over Rs 8 Lakh – Sextortion Victims Follow These Tips
NEW DELHI: A 71-year-old Ayurvedic doctor in Khichripur, East Delhi, fell victim to sextortion scam, losing over Rs 8 lakh to a gang. The gang threatened to circulate his “obscene” video and demanded money. The cyber police station in the east district registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on the victim’s account.
Deceptive Calls and a Fabricated Crisis:
According to a police report filed at the cyber police station in the east district, the 71-year-old doctor recounted receiving a video call on July 13th, 2023. The caller, a woman, seemingly distressed, cried for help before the call abruptly disconnected. Believing a patient was in need, the doctor dismissed the incident.
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However, late that night, another video call, unanswered due to the doctor being asleep, followed. The next day, upon answering a third call, the unsuspecting doctor witnessed a woman undressing on the screen. He promptly disconnected and switched off his phone, hoping the unsettling encounter was an isolated incident.
Escalating Threats and Extortion:
The following day, his phone erupted with calls from individuals posing as Delhi Police personnel. They claimed the doctor’s video had gone viral and threatened dire consequences if he didn’t cooperate. Fearful and overwhelmed, the doctor was coerced into paying money for the supposed arrest of the suspects in Mumbai, travel expenses, and even court fees.
The extortion continued relentlessly, draining the doctor of a total of Rs 8.59 lakh before the threats finally subsided.
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Police Action and the Pursuit of Justice:
Following the doctor’s brave decision to come forward, an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating, impersonation, criminal intimidation, and acting with common intention. Police have assured swift action, stating, “Teams have been formed to nab the accused. We are checking mobile number details. Accused will be arrested soon.”
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Sextortion is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences for victims. If you find yourself being blackmailed or extorted with intimate images or videos, here are some steps you can take:
1. Don’t panic: The most important thing is to stay calm and collected. Panicking will only make it harder to think clearly and make sound decisions.
2. Don’t pay: Paying the blackmailer will only encourage them to continue their behavior. It is also unlikely that they will actually delete the images or videos once they have your money.
3. Save the evidence: Collect all of the evidence you have, such as screenshots of the messages, emails, or video calls, as well as any phone numbers or usernames associated with the blackmailer.
4. Report the crime: File a report with the police and your local cybercrime unit. They will be able to investigate the crime and help you bring the blackmailer to justice. Dial 1930 or visit www.cybercrime.gov.in to register your complaint.
5. Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what is happening. You can also seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in sextortion.
Here are some additional tips for sextortion victims:
- Change your passwords: Change the passwords for all of your online accounts, especially your email and social media accounts.
- Be careful about what you share online: Be careful about what you share online, especially with people you don’t know. Don’t send intimate images or videos to anyone, even if you trust them.
- Use strong passwords: Use strong passwords that are difficult to guess. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
- Install security software: Install security software on your computer and phone to help protect you from malware and other threats.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings when you are online, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
Remember, you are not alone. There are people who can help you through this difficult time.