Beware of WhatsApp Sextortion: Delhi Senior Loses Rs 12 Lakh, 2 Arrested

New Delhi: As the 5G network becomes increasingly accessible in many regions, individuals are opting for WhatsApp video calls over traditional voice calls to connect with loved ones face-to-face. However, this convenient feature is also becoming a tool for cybercriminals who exploit it for malicious purposes. Miscreants are utilizing WhatsApp video calls to engage in blackmail and extortion schemes targeting unsuspecting victims.

If you receive a WhatsApp call from an unfamiliar number, exercising caution before answering is crucial, as it may potentially lead to trouble. Recent reports indicate that the Delhi police have apprehended two individuals for allegedly extorting Rs 12.8 lakh from an elderly man by threatening to expose explicit screenshots of his video call with a woman on social media, as per NDTV.

The arrested suspects have been identified as Barkhat Khan, 32, and Rizwan, 22, both residents of Rajasthan, according to the cyber cell police, as reported by NDTV. The incident occurred on July 18 when the victim received a WhatsApp video call, during which a woman appeared undressed. Before the victim could comprehend the situation, the woman captured a screenshot of the call, which included the victim’s face.

Shortly thereafter, the victim began receiving calls from various mobile numbers, with the callers falsely claiming to represent the Cyber Crime Delhi unit. They proceeded to threaten the victim with the release of the incriminating screenshot and demanded a sum of money. When the victim resisted their demands, the accused escalated their threats by sending an image of the woman, ostensibly depicting her as deceased and hanging. Under the mounting pressure, the elderly man ultimately transferred ₹12,80,000 to the bank account provided by the culprits.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Rohit Meena disclosed that the initial arrest was made in Alwar, apprehending Khan, who was found in possession of three mobile phones and multiple SIM cards. Further investigations revealed the existence of a syndicate orchestrating such fraudulent video calls to deceive and extort people. Subsequent operations led to the arrest of Rizwan in Deeg.

The police are actively conducting additional interrogations to uncover the full extent of the criminal operation.