Delhi Police Bust Cyber Extortion Ring Linked to Dating App Scam
Cyber Extortion Case Uncovered
The Delhi Police have successfully dismantled a cyber extortion scheme, apprehending two individuals, including the alleged mastermind. This investigation was initiated following a complaint from Ankit Kumar Kain, a Shahdara resident who became a victim of the scam.
As per police reports, Kain connected with a woman named Nandini on the dating platform QuakQuak. After exchanging WhatsApp numbers, she initiated a video call while undressed, capturing Kain's image. Subsequently, she blackmailed him, threatening to release the video unless he paid her. To avoid public embarrassment, Kain transferred ₹35,000 to a Bandhan Bank account specified by the extortionist.
When further demands for money were made, Kain reported the incident through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP). Investigators traced the funds to a Bandhan Bank account registered under Mangal Singh, a resident of South Delhi, but managed by Shyam Singh from Rajasthan. It was discovered that Shyam had opened the account online using Mangal's personal information.
The police noted that the mobile number and email associated with the account were linked to Shyam. Four mobile devices utilized in the scam were seized from Shyam's possession. The ATM card and SIM card connected to the account were given to another suspect, Aamir, who is currently evading capture. Mangal Singh was also apprehended at his home in Jhangola, Delhi, where he revealed that he had met Shyam Singh through an individual named Harjeet Singh, also known as Sonu.
Shyam Singh had offered Mangal ₹10,000 for the use of his bank account. Mangal provided his ATM card, cheque book, and SIM card associated with the account to Shyam. In return, Mangal received ₹6,000 online from Harjeet Singh and ₹4,000 in cash from Shyam Singh, according to police statements.
During questioning, it emerged that Shyam Singh had been encouraging individuals to open bank accounts for monetary compensation. He opened a Bandhan Bank account online and transferred it to co-accused Aamir. The investigation is ongoing, as authorities continue to gather evidence.