Hyderabad police have issued a serious warning to women and young girls regarding a burgeoning “boyfriends for rent” scam circulating widely on social media platforms. Authorities state that cybercriminals are exploiting appealing online advertisements to defraud victims of their money and personal data.
VC Sajjanar, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad City, utilized X (formerly Twitter) to alert the public about these fraudulent schemes. He emphasized that attractive posters promoting companion services, often featuring deceptive discounts, are merely a front for sophisticated cyber fraud.
The scam operates through advertisements posted on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Telegram, under enticing titles like “Rent Boyfriend – Your Personal Companion.” These posts often display images of attractive men, frequently generated by artificial intelligence or stolen from legitimate internet profiles. They offer various service packages, including coffee dates, movie companions, and shopping trips.
Once a potential victim expresses interest in booking a service, the scammers initiate conversations before demanding upfront payments. They request money for registration fees, safety deposits, or advance booking costs, typically via QR codes and digital payment applications. As soon as the victim transfers the funds, the scammers immediately sever all communication and block the individual.
Commissioner Sajjanar’s warning also included a plea to parents. His post stated, “In this matter, girls as well as their parents should be extremely cautious. What kind of posts do your children see on social media? Who are you talking to? Whom do you meet when you go out? Parents should constantly keep an eye on these issues. If there is proper monitoring of smartphone usage, innocent children may fall into the trap. There is danger.”
Police also highlighted the significant risks associated with sharing contact details, photos, or personal information with unverified online accounts. Such actions can expose individuals to potential blackmail, harassment, and even physical safety threats if attempts are made to meet in person.
Authorities are urging citizens to refrain from communicating with unknown online profiles and to never send advance payments for such services. Anyone who encounters suspicious activity or becomes a victim of cyber fraud is advised to report the incident immediately by calling the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or by visiting the official national cybercrime portal.
