Hyderabad CP Sajjanar warns public against fake kidnap calls, obscene online content with minors

Hyderabad: City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has urged citizens to stay alert against cybercriminals who pose as cops and raise fake child kidnapping alert to extract money.

He also warned social media creators against producing obscene content involving minors, stressing that strict legal action would follow such offences.

Cybercriminals exploiting parental fear

Sajjanar cautioned that cybercriminals are using fear and panic to exploit parents. “If someone calls claiming your child has been kidnapped, mentions their name, or plays the sound of them crying, don't panic or lose control. Fear and anxiety are turning into tools for these criminals,” he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

He advised parents to stay calm and immediately report such incidents to the police. “Contact your local police station, call 1930, or file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in,” he added.

The Commissioner also shared an audio clip of a fraudster impersonating a police officer and attempting to extort money from a worried parent, a tactic, he said, being used in several recent cases.

Caution against sharing personal details online

Sajjanar appealed to parents not to share personal details of their children or relatives on social media platforms. “Unwittingly, people are helping criminals by revealing too much information online,” he observed, emphasizing that awareness and vigilance are the best safeguards against such cyber threats.

Case filed against YouTube Channels

In a separate instance, the Hyderabad Cybercrime Police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against two YouTube channels for creating obscene content featuring minors.

“Freedom on social media doesn’t mean one can post anything. The police department will take strict action against those responsible as per law,” Sajjanar stated.

‘Don’t exploit children for views and likes’

Condemning the use of minors for online popularity, the Police Commissioner questioned the morality of such actions. “When values fade in the illusion of views, what are we becoming? How justifiable is it to risk children merely for likes and followers?” he asked.

He urged social media creators to promote inspiring stories and role models instead of making inappropriate videos with children. “Highlight people who motivate youth and contribute to society’s growth, not those who exploit minors for attention,” Sajjanar said.

Appeal for responsible social media use

Reiterating the need for ethical online behavior, Sajjanar called on parents, creators, and the public to act responsibly in the digital space. “Don’t divert young minds with indecent content. Protect them from online harm, awareness begins at home,” he added.