WhatsApp video scam targets Sri Lankans; victims blackmailed for ransom

Colombo, May 4 (Daily Mirror) - Several complaints have been lodged with the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) in recent days over a new WhatsApp-based video scam that has reportedly targeted Sri Lankans, with operations believed to be linked to India.

According to officials, the scam involves fraudsters using fake Facebook profiles, often impersonating attractive young women to approach unsuspecting individuals. The scammers initially connect with victims and their friends through these accounts before initiating contact via WhatsApp.

Victims are then lured into a video call, during which the caller appearing as a nude woman attempts to entice them into engaging in explicit behaviour. Authorities note that even if the victim does not participate, merely remaining on the call for a short period can be sufficient for scammers to proceed with the scheme.

Following the call, victims are sent a manipulated video falsely depicting them in explicit interactions. In some cases, the same content is also shared with individuals from the victim’s social media contacts, intensifying the pressure.

The perpetrators then demand a ransom, typically instructing victims to transfer money to bank accounts believed to be based in India. They threaten to distribute the fabricated content widely across social media platforms if the payment is not made.
CERT officials warn that several individuals, including prominent members of society, have reportedly fallen prey to the scam.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant when interacting with unknown contacts online and to avoid engaging in suspicious video calls. Victims are strongly advised to report incidents immediately to the nearest police station and seek assistance from cybersecurity authorities.