Scammers Impersonating Cyber Police to Extort Money Using Fake Pornography Allegations

A new cyber fraud trend is alarming citizens across India, with scammers posing as cyber police officers and accusing people of watching pornographic or illegal content online. Exploiting fear and shame, these fraudsters are extorting large sums of money from unsuspecting victims.

Rishi (name changed) is among several victims who received a WhatsApp call from a person claiming to be a police official. The caller accused him of watching child pornography and threatened arrest. “They told me my browsing data had been tracked and that I could be arrested,” Rishi said. Over a month, he lost more than ₹1 lakh and was coerced into opening a bank account linked to the scammers’ number.

Several victims have reported receiving fake “legal notices” on WhatsApp, making the threats appear authentic.

Cybercrime analyst Ajay Singh told indianexpress.com that the scam typically begins with a WhatsApp or phone call from someone claiming to represent a “cyber police station.” “In many cases, the scammers already know personal details like the victim’s name or parents’ names, which makes the call sound genuine,” Singh said.

The fraudsters allege that the victim’s internet activity shows access to adult websites and claim a criminal case has been filed. They then demand payment to “avoid arrest” or to obtain a fake “No Objection Certificate (NOC).” Background siren sounds are often played during the call to create panic.

Singh clarified that no cyber police unit in India sends notices via WhatsApp or demands money for NOCs. “If a legitimate case exists, notices are delivered physically and legal action follows due process,” he said.

He advised anyone receiving such calls to disconnect immediately, block the number, and never share personal information, money, or OTPs. Victims should preserve all evidence — including call logs, chats, and fake notices — and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline 1930. Suspicious numbers can also be reported on the Sanchar Saathi portal.

Cybersecurity expert Akshat Khetan added that scammers often use official-looking logos and fake notices with NCRB or Cyber Cell branding to appear credible. “Watching adult content privately is not a criminal offence in India,” Khetan clarified, citing Supreme Court rulings. However, creating or sharing pornographic content, especially involving minors, remains punishable under Section 67B of the IT Act, 2000.

Khetan advised verifying any police notice by checking for a valid case number, official letterhead, date, and signature — ideally with a QR code or verification link. “If the details can’t be corroborated through official sources, treat it as a scam,” he said.

Singh emphasized that awareness is the best defence against such scams. “Victims must overcome fear and report these crimes. Silence only empowers scammers,” he said, urging authorities and telecom operators to block fraudulent SIM cards and bank accounts swiftly.

For any such intimidation or extortion attempt, citizens should immediately report the incident at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.