Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 19 November 2023
Cybercriminals are leveraging intimate video calls to blackmail individuals, a disturbing trend identified as sextortion. This form of coercion involves threatening to expose personal and sensitive images online unless victims comply with the blackmailer’s demands. While individuals can perpetrate sextortion, organized crime often orchestrates these schemes, frequently demanding monetary payments in exchange for silence. Authorities suspect that the culprits might operate from within India or abroad, targeting both men and women.
Responding to this alarming trend, the Andaman and Nicobar Police has issued a comprehensive advisory to help individuals safeguard themselves from falling victim to such cyber threats:
1. Exercise Caution with Unknown Contacts: Refrain from responding to unsolicited video calls, friend requests from unfamiliar profiles, or messages from unknown numbers.
2. Guard Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal phone numbers online, especially with individuals unfamiliar to you.
3. Exercise Discretion with Intimate Media: Steer clear of sharing intimate photos or videos on social media or messaging platforms, as these could be exploited for blackmail.
4. Documentation for Safety: Maintain a detailed record of communications from potential blackmailers, noting any demands or threats. Gathering information about the perpetrator is crucial for reporting purposes.
For assistance, information, or inquiries related to cyber threats, individuals can reach out to the Cyber Cell in Port Blair through the Cyber Helpline No. 9531856083 or access resources at cybercrime.gov.in.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police urge citizens to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect themselves against such cyber threats, emphasising the importance of immediate reporting and seeking support from dedicated cybercrime authorities when confronted with such incidents.