Recent times have witnessed numerous instances of cyber fraud and digital scams, prompting people to be cautious of such calls. However, a new case of online fraud is particularly unique and frightening. This incident took place in Noida's Expressway police station area in Uttar Pradesh, where cybercriminals impersonated doctors to victimized an elderly man, eventually blackmailing him into transferring around 200,000 rupees.
Recorded Objectionable Video
The criminals exploited an online video call under the guise of a checkup to capture an objectionable video of the victim, which they used as leverage to blackmail and execute the fraud.
Specifically, an elder residing in Noida Sector-135 reported to the police that on December 19, 2024, he received a phone call from someone claiming to be a doctor, offering to resolve any health issues he might have. The complainant mentioned he was suffering from blood in his urine. Upon hearing this, the scammer asked him to undress over a video call to show the problem. Trusting them, the victim appeared on the video call to demonstrate his issue, during which the cybercriminal recorded his video and photos.
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'Or Else... We Will Make It Viral'
Then, on January 1, 2025, the victim received another call, informing him that his objectionable video and photos had been recorded. The perpetrators demanded money, threatening to make the video viral. Out of fear, the victim initially transferred some money. Subsequently, on January 7, another demand for money was made. The criminal contact was made through different numbers, compelling the victim to transfer money via UPI continually.
According to the victim, he kept transferring money out of fear, totaling 180,000 rupees so far. The criminals also threatened him to meet them at Sector-12 or transfer more funds. Upon receiving his complaint, the police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. The police assured that the criminals would soon be tracked and arrested.
