Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 01 October 2023
In an era defined by digital connectivity, the Andaman and Nicobar Police are taking proactive steps to raise awareness about the growing threat of “Catphishing.” This malicious form of online abuse has been on the rise, posing significant risks to individuals who fall prey to cybercriminals’ tactics.
Catphishing involves cybercriminals using a variety of digital channels, including instant messaging apps, SMS, online dating apps, social media platforms, and even adult websites, to manipulate users into engaging in intimate video or audio chats. These nefarious individuals aim to coerce their victims into sharing explicit or revealing photos and videos.
Once the cybercriminals obtain compromising material, they wield it as a weapon, subjecting victims to harassment, embarrassment, threats, exploitation, and blackmail. The threats range from distributing the private and sensitive content online to demanding sexual favours, money, or further compromising material.
In some cases, these perpetrators go a step further by threatening harm to the victim’s friends or family members, using information gleaned from electronic devices as leverage until their demands are met.
To protect individuals from falling victim to Catphishing, the Andaman and Nicobar Police have issued a comprehensive advisory with the following key recommendations:
1. Never Share Compromising Material: Under no circumstances should anyone share compromising images, posts, or videos of themselves with others, regardless of their identity.
2. Exercise Caution with Unknown Calls and Video Chats: Avoid picking up calls or video chats from anonymous or unfamiliar numbers.
3. Secure Electronic Devices: Turn off electronic devices and web cameras when not in use to prevent unauthorised access.
4. Strengthen Online Security: Use two-factor authentication with strong, unique passwords for each social media account and enable privacy and security features.
5. Seek Support: Don’t suffer in silence. Reach out for help and support from trusted family and friends if you find yourself targeted by Catphishing.
6. Avoid Suspicious Websites: Exercise caution while browsing and steer clear of suspicious websites to minimise risks.
7. Stay Cautious on Social Media and Dating Platforms: Be wary of unknown users who attempt to swiftly move conversations to different interactive platforms.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police also encourage individuals facing such threats to seek assistance from Cyber Cell in Port Blair. They can be reached via the Cyber Helpline at 9531856083 or by visiting cybercrime.gov.in.