CyberPeace Academy | Nude Video Call Extortion Scams

From the various cases reported to the police, and also to the CyberPeace helpline, we have identified the modus operandi of these criminals.


Attractive profiles, mostly in the name of women, are created on dating sites and social networking platforms.
When a user matches with these profiles, they start a seemingly casual conversation.
The victim is then asked to join a video call, which is often private in nature.
Perpetrators gain the trust of their victim by initiating the act of undressing first and then encourage them to do the same, which most users agree to.


The video calls are recorded, then used to extort money from the victim. These are often shared with the friends and family members of the victim too, to further harass them and get them to pay money.


Is this illegal?
As long as you are indulging in a video call consensually, even if it is sexual in nature, it is absolutely fine. However, if you are being recorded without your consent, it is a crime under section 66E of the Information Technology Act. This section says, “Whoever, intentionally or knowingly captures, publishes or transmits the image of a private area of any person without his or her consent, under circumstances violating the privacy of that person, shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to three years or with fine not exceeding two lakh rupees, or with both.”
Additionally, they can be booked for defamation as well.


How to deal with such issues?
Do not make any payments to such criminals. There is no guarantee that they will stop harassing you. If you do make any payments, make sure that you collect all the information and keep it safe, as it can be used to identify the perpetrator.


Filing a complaint: The next, and most important thing to do is file a complaint with the local police. You can visit the nearest police station to lodge an FIR. Alternatively you can visit cybercrime.gov.in and file a complaint as well. Please note, this complaint is not equivalent to an FIR, but the complaint will be transferred to the relevant authorities.


Blocking and reporting the user: It is advised that you cease all communication with anyone who is threatening and extorting you. You can report and block them on the platform itself. Make sure you choose the most appropriate reason when reporting.


Reporting/Removing the private photos and videos: If ever your private photos or videos are published publicly on a website or social media platform, there are two ways to get it removed. You can either report it, using the report feature or you can fill up forms available on platforms.


You can find the content removal forms by searching for the name of the platform, followed by violation of privacy.
For example,
If I search for “Instagram violation of privacy”, I will find this form.
  / 267832646728129  


When you open this form, you will find the option to report the photo or video that is violative of your privacy.
Follow the steps, and the content will be removed from the platform.


If you are unable to find this form, you can search for the copyright violation form as well.


What are some tips to keep in mind?
Cross check the identities of users before sharing any information with them or getting involved in any way. You can do this by checking their profiles on other platforms. If you see profiles that are relatively new with little or no posts, it is a red flag.


Avoid sharing any information that can be used against you, such as photos/videos, contact details, financial information etc.


If you receive calls from unknown numbers, especially from other countries, avoid answering them. Numbers beginning with +91 are Indian numbers. Any other code indicates the number is either from a different country or a virtual number.


You can also consider opting for cyber insurance, which will keep you covered if you ever fall prey to any attack in cyberspace.


If you ever find yourself in a situation like this, talk to a trusted adult and reach out to the authorities.


For more information, log onto CyberPeace.org or reach out to us on WhatsApp at +91 9570000066.


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