New Threats in the Digital Age: Online Fraud in the Name of Trust and Friendship
As people’s lives become increasingly connected to the internet and social media, cybercrime is also evolving with newer and more sophisticated methods. In recent times, several cases from Punjab have raised serious concerns about how safe women are in the digital world.
AI-Based Blackmail Gangs Exposed
Recently, an interstate cyber fraud gang was busted in Mohali. Police investigations revealed that the gang used fake social media profiles to contact women.
After gaining trust, the accused would use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to create fake obscene videos and then threaten victims with their release, extorting money.
According to police, the gang had defrauded nearly ₹40 lakh over two years.
In one case, a woman was extorted of about ₹3.10 lakh. The accused initially posed as astrologers or spiritual advisors to gain trust and later began blackmailing victims through digital means.
Romance Scams: Trust as a Weapon
Cases of romance scams are also rising rapidly.
In Ludhiana, a man posed as an NRI living in the UK, befriended a woman, and promised marriage. Later, under the pretext of sending gifts, he allegedly cheated her of around ₹79 lakh.
Such cases highlight a common pattern: cybercriminals first build emotional connections and gain trust, then begin demanding money under various pretexts such as custom duties or gift deliveries.
Not Limited to Punjab
This problem is not confined to Punjab.
In a case from Gujarat, a woman was approached on Instagram by a man who promised to send gifts and later demanded money. The fraud was exposed due to timely intervention by banks and police.
In another case, a man from Punjab was arrested for allegedly harassing nearly 60 women workers through obscene video calls.
NCRB Data Shows Alarming Trend
Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) indicates a sharp rise in cybercrime across India.
• In 2021: around 52,000 cases
• In 2023: over 86,000 cases
Punjab is also witnessing a growing cybercrime problem.
• In 2022: about 697 cybercrime cases were registered in the state
• Crimes against women also remain significant, with over 5,500 cases reported in 2022
Privacy is Key to Cyber Safety
Cybersecurity experts warn that deepfake and AI technologies have provided criminals with new tools.
A cybersecurity expert from Chandigarh noted:
“Even a few ordinary photos shared on social media can be used to create deepfake videos. People need to be more cautious about their digital privacy.”
How to Stay Safe from Cyber Fraud
Police advise that people should be extremely cautious while interacting with unknown individuals online.
• Avoid sharing personal photos or sensitive information
• Be alert if someone asks for money or private content
• Do not trust profiles blindly, even if they appear genuine
In cases of cyber fraud or online blackmail, victims can contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).
While the digital age has opened new opportunities, it has also introduced new risks. Experts emphasize that along with technological advancement, awareness is equally important, especially for ensuring women’s safety online.
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