Hyderabad Police Commissioner Sajjanar has issued a high-alert regarding a new cyber scam targeting women through 'Rent-a-Boyfriend' advertisements on social media. Scammers are using AI-generated photos to lure victims into financial and blackmailing traps.

Key Takeaways

  • Scammers are advertising 'Rent-a-Boyfriend' services on Instagram, Telegram, and Facebook.
  • Fake profiles use AI-generated handsome photos to build trust.
  • The scam involves charging 'security deposits' or 'advance fees' via digital wallets.
  • Victims face risks of financial loss and severe blackmailing.

In a critical advisory, Hyderabad Police Commissioner Sajjanar has warned women and young girls about a sophisticated new dating trap circulating on social media. The scam, operating under the guise of providing 'personal companions' or 'rent-a-boyfriends,' uses highly attractive advertisements to lure unsuspecting victims into a web of fraud.

The Modus Operandi of the Scam

According to the police, scammers are promoting packages such as '1st August Special - 50% OFF' and 'Rent-a-Boyfriend - Your Personal Companion' on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They offer various 'rates'—ranging from ₹499 for a coffee meeting to ₹4,499 for a full 10-hour day package. To make these profiles look legitimate, criminals use AI-generated images or stolen photos of handsome men to deceive users.

Read Also:Key Accused in Multi-State Cyber Fraud Arrested at Chennai Airport

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this is not merely a financial scam but a gateway to much more dangerous crimes. Once a victim engages in chat, scammers collect personal details, phone numbers, and private photos. This information is subsequently used for extortion and blackmailing, putting the victim's reputation and mental well-being at extreme risk.

'Engaging with strangers met online through these fake advertisements can lead to dangerous physical encounters and blackmailing.'

The Hyderabad Cyber Crime division is actively monitoring these activities. The police urge citizens not to pay any advance money or security deposits via QR codes or digital wallets to unverified individuals.

Advice for Parents and Victims

Police officials have emphasized that parents must monitor their children's smartphone usage and social media interactions. If anyone falls victim to such a scam, they should immediately contact the cyber crime helpline at 1930 or report it via the official portal at cybercrime.gov.in.

Did You Know?: Cyber criminals increasingly use Deepfake and AI technology to create 'perfect' profiles that are nearly indistinguishable from real human beings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What should I do if I have been scammed online?
Answer: Immediately report the incident by calling 1930 or visiting the official government cybercrime portal.

Question 2: How can I identify a fake dating profile?
Answer: Be wary of profiles offering high-value services at extremely low costs or those insisting on upfront digital payments.