Kozhikode City: The Kozhikode City Police have issued a warning regarding a concerning surge in fraudulent activities perpetrated through video calls on platforms such as WhatsApp and Messenger. The modus operandi involves an insidious trap, wherein answering an incoming video call on one’s mobile phone exposes the viewer to explicit content. Subsequently, the malevolent actors record the individual’s reaction and then employ extortion tactics, coercing the victim into paying a sum of money. The coercion involves a menacing threat to disseminate the recorded video to the victim’s circle of friends and family via social media platforms like Facebook or YouTube.
Disturbingly, even when some victims comply with the initial monetary demand out of fear of reputational damage, the unscrupulous fraudsters persist in their exploitation. They subject the victims to further extortion by demanding additional funds, creating a distressing cycle of financial coercion.
Moreover, attempts to thwart these scammers by blocking or deactivating accounts prove futile, as it is suggested that these fraudsters might have already amassed a wealth of personal information through social media reconnaissance.
Given the potential for the perpetrators to possess comprehensive details from platforms like Facebook, it becomes imperative for individuals to exercise heightened vigilance. Caution is strongly advised when confronted with video calls from unfamiliar sources, as falling prey to this elaborate and distressing scheme could have severe consequences. The public is urged to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding themselves against such sophisticated and malicious activities.
