Telegram honeytrap fraud: Yakutpura youth cheated of Rs 1.02 lakh by scammer posing as woman

Hyderabad: A 20-year-old youth from Yakutpura was cheated of more than Rs 1 lakh in a Telegram-based honeytrap and extortion scam. The scammer impersonated a woman offering paid sexual services.

Fake profile with stolen photos and reviews

According to cybercrime officials, the fraudster created a convincing fake identity on Telegram, using stolen photographs and fabricated feedback screenshots to gain the victim’s trust.

The accused posed as a woman offering paid services and slowly built confidence through regular chats.

Payments taken under false pretexts

Once trust was established, the accused began demanding money under several false claims such as advance booking fee, service security deposit and hotel room reservation charges.

The victim was repeatedly assured that all payments were compulsory and completely refundable. Believing these claims, he transferred money through UPI and bank accounts to multiple numbers shared by the fraudster.

The total amount lost stood at Rs 1,02,093.

Trapped at Abids Hotel, then threatened

After collecting the money, the accused instructed the victim to reach a hotel in Abids. However, no one appeared at the location. When the victim tried to contact the fraudster, he was instead threatened and asked to pay an additional Rs 10,000.

Realising that it was a well-organised cyber fraud and extortion racket, the victim lodged a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station, Hyderabad, following threats and financial exploitation.

Cybercrime police issue strong public warning

Following the incident, police issued a public advisory cautioning citizens against online honeytrap scams operating through Telegram and WhatsApp.

Here are some dos and don’ts to follow:

- Avoid interacting with unknown profiles offering paid companionship or sexual services.

- Fraudsters use stolen images, fake reviews and edited chat screenshots to appear genuine.

- Multiple payment demands are raised using excuses such as booking fees, security deposits and manager charges.

- No legitimate service asks for advance payment through personal UPI IDs or bank accounts.

- Never share personal details or visit unknown locations based on online assurances.

- In case of threats, blackmail or money loss, seek help immediately.

Helpline numbers for victims

Victims of cyber fraud are advised to call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline), register complaints at www.cybercrime.gov.in, and, for emergencies, contact 8712665171 (Call/WhatsApp).