Yakutpura youth loses over Rs 1 lakh in Telegram honeytrap scam

A 20-year-old Yakutpura resident lost more than ₹1 lakh after falling for a Telegram honeytrap scam in which a fraudster posed as a woman offering paid companionship. After repeated payment demands and threats, he realised the fraud and approached Cybercrime Police.

Hyderabad: A 20-year-old resident of Yakutpura was duped of over Rs 1 lakh in a Telegram-based impersonation and extortion scam, where a fraudster posed as a woman offering paid companionship.

According to the Cybercrime Police, the scammer used stolen photos, fabricated feedback, and scripted chats to appear genuine before collecting multiple payments on the pretext of advance booking, security deposit, and room reservation.

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Believing the claims, the victim transferred money through UPI and bank accounts. He was later instructed to reach a hotel in Abids, where no one turned up. The fraudster then demanded an additional Rs 10,000 and issued threats, prompting the victim to realise it was a honeytrap scam and lodge a complaint with the Cybercrime Police Station.

Police warned that such frauds are increasing across Telegram and WhatsApp, with scammers frequently using intimidation and extortion tactics after extracting payments.

Public Advisory
*Do not trust unknown profiles offering paid companionship or sexual services on Telegram/WhatsApp.
*Fraudsters use stolen photos, fake reviews, and manipulated chats to appear legitimate.
*Repeated demands for booking charges, security deposits, or manager fees are red flags.
*No genuine service will ask for advance payments through UPI or personal bank accounts.
*Avoid sharing personal details or visiting unknown locations based on online promises.
*For threats or financial loss, report immediately to 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in.
*For emergencies, contact Cyber Crime helpline 8712665171.