Bengaluru model falls prey to cybercrime; crooks threaten to leak her nudes

A 24-year-old Bengaluru model, became the victim of a sophisticated online scam, resulting in blackmail and the creation of a fake social media profile. The incident began on January 29th when she responded to an Instagram advertisement for a music album modeling opportunity.

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Following initial contact, she was directed to a WhatsApp organizer and participated in an online audition via Zoom. During a second round, she was instructed to change clothes. Despite disconnecting the video call, the perpetrators captured nude footage of her. They then demanded money, threatening to release the video on social media.

She initially paid Rs 10,000 via a digital payment app, but the blackmail continued, with demands for more money and persistent threats. The fraudsters used Snapchat, a phone number, and a fake Instagram profile in her name to harass her.

Police investigations revealed the money was transferred to a UPI ID under the name Shalu. Officials have registered a case under the Information Technology Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita section 308 (extortion). The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify and apprehend the suspects. The police officer expressed shock at the recorded video after the call disconnection, and said they will know more details after questioning the suspects.