The Rising Threat of Fake Cyber Police Extortion
A disturbing new cyber fraud trend is sweeping across India, where scammers impersonating cyber police officers are falsely accusing citizens of watching illegal content online and extorting large sums of money. Using psychological weapons of fear and shame, these criminals have perfected a sophisticated intimidation tactic that has already claimed numerous victims.
The scam typically begins with an unexpected WhatsApp call from someone claiming to represent a cyber police station. The caller aggressively accuses the victim of accessing child pornography or other illegal content, claiming their internet browsing data has been tracked and monitored.
How the Elaborate Scam Operates
According to cybercrime analyst Ajay Singh who spoke with indianexpress.com, the scammers often begin with a crucial advantage: they already possess personal information about their targets. "In many cases, the scammers already know personal details like the victim's name or parents' names, which makes the call sound genuine," Singh explained.
One victim, identified only as Rishi, experienced this firsthand when he received a WhatsApp call from someone claiming to be a police official. "They told me my browsing data had been tracked and that I could be arrested," Rishi recalled. The psychological pressure was immense, leading him to lose more than Rs 1 lakh over a month. The scammers even coerced him into opening a bank account linked to their phone number.
To make their threats appear legitimate, the fraudsters often send fake legal notices via WhatsApp and use background siren sounds during calls to heighten panic. They claim victims can avoid arrest or public embarrassment by paying a fine or obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
How to Verify Authentic Police Communication
Singh provided crucial clarification about genuine police procedures: No Indian cyber police unit ever sends notices via WhatsApp or demands money for NOCs. "If a legitimate cybercrime case exists, notices are delivered physically, and legal action follows due process," he emphasized.
He advised anyone receiving such suspicious calls to immediately contact their local police station or cyber cell directly—and never through the same number that initiated contact.
Essential Safety Measures and Legal Facts
If you receive such a threatening call:
- Disconnect immediately and block the number
- Do not share money, personal documents, or OTPs
- Preserve evidence including call logs, chats, screenshots, and fake notices
- File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline 1930
- Report the number on the Sanchar Saathi portal
Cybersecurity expert Akshat Khetan clarified an important legal aspect: watching adult pornography privately is not a criminal offence in India. "The Supreme Court has affirmed that adults viewing such content in private cannot be prosecuted solely for that," he stated.
However, Khetan noted that production, distribution, or sharing of pornographic material—especially involving minors or violence—remains punishable under the IT Act, 2000 (Section 67B) and related IPC provisions.
To verify authentic police notices, Khetan recommended checking for valid case or FIR numbers, official letterhead, dates, signatures, and ideally QR codes or verification links. Always use only official contact details from government websites for verification.
The Bigger Picture: Awareness as Defense
"Awareness is the first line of defence," Singh stressed, noting that most victims fall prey because of fear and lack of information. He urged authorities to act swiftly in blocking suspicious SIM cards and bank accounts, and telecom operators to re-verify flagged connections.
"Victims must also overcome fear and report such crimes. Silence only empowers scammers," he emphasized, highlighting that prompt reporting through official channels remains the most effective way to combat this growing threat.
For any intimidation or extortion attempts, citizens are advised to report immediately to cybercrime.gov.in or call the national cybercrime helpline at 1930.
