Techie Duped of ₹1.4 Lakh by Fraudulent Escort Service, Lodges Complaint

Swift Summary

• A case has been registered by the High Grounds police against an individual accused of cheating a 24-year-old software engineer.
• The victim reported losing ₹1.49 lakh to a person, identified as Ishani Reddy through money trails, who allegedly offered escort and massage services online.
• The fraud started with a ₹299 registration fee but escalated as the accused demanded repeated payments under various pretenses totaling to ₹1.49 lakh before going incommunicado.
• Police suspect that the perpetrator is using a fake identity and targeted vulnerable individuals seeking such services.
• Citizens are urged by police to exercise caution when dealing with strangers online.

Indian Opinion Analysis
This case highlights the growing prevalence of online frauds exploiting trust and desperation, notably targeting young professionals familiar with digital transactions but potentially lacking awareness about scam tactics. It underscores an urgent need for public education on cyber safety and vigilance in financial interactions over social platforms. Additionally, robust enforcement mechanisms and digital literacy campaigns could deter such crimes effectively while ensuring victims are better equipped for prevention rather than solely depending on reactive responses from law enforcement agencies.Read more: