Hyderabad: A 41-year-old resident of Gowliguda, Hyderabad, lost ₹3.42 lakh in a sextortion scam involving video call blackmail, payment fraud, and cybercrime. Police said the fraud began with a call from an unknown woman. It then escalated into repeated extortion and hacking.
According to the complaint, the incident started on October 5, 2025, when the victim received a call from a woman identifying herself as Jyothi Gupta. She attempted to lure him into conversation. This was followed shortly by a video call from a man claiming to be Vikram Goswami, who was dressed in what appeared to be a uniform.
Threats, fear, and repeated payments
The man threatened to release compromising footage of the victim unless he paid money. Fearing reputational harm, the victim transferred multiple payments via Google Pay to an individual named Manjeet Singh. He was assured that the matter would be settled and the money returned.
However, the harassment continued. The accused reportedly gained access to the victim’s bank accounts. This caused further financial damage. In a later twist, the scammers falsely claimed that the woman involved had died. They warned of legal action if more money was not sent.
Case registered, police probe underway
Driven by fear, shame, and helplessness, the victim kept transferring money, ultimately losing ₹3,41,950. The Hyderabad police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the scam. Officials urged the public to stay cautious and report similar incidents without delay.