Two young men from Pune took their own lives within days of each other after falling prey to online ‘sextortion’ scams. The cases have sent shockwaves through the city, highlighting the growing menace of cybercrime and the urgent need for digital awareness, mental health support, and swift law enforcement action.
‘Sextortion’ is a form of cybercrime where scammers lure victims into sharing intimate photos or videos, often through fake social media profiles or video calls. Once the material is obtained, the criminals threaten to leak the content online or send it to family and friends unless a ransom is paid.
These scams are increasingly targeting young, tech-savvy individuals who may be unaware of the risks or too embarrassed to seek help when they become victims.
A 22-year-old engineering student from Kothrud received a friend request from an unknown woman on Instagram. After a brief chat, the conversation moved to a video call, during which the victim was manipulated into sharing private visuals. Within hours, he began receiving threats and demands for money. Despite paying Rs 15,000, the blackmail continued. Overwhelmed by fear and shame, the young man died by suicide two days later, leaving behind a note describing the harassment.
Just three days later, a 19-year-old college student from Hadapsar was targeted in a similar scam. The cybercriminals threatened to circulate morphed images to his family and college friends. The relentless pressure and humiliation drove him to end his life, with his family discovering the extortion messages on his phone.
Pune police have registered FIRs in both cases and are tracing the digital footprints of the scammers, who are suspected to be part of organized cybercrime syndicates operating from outside Maharashtra, and possibly even overseas. Authorities have urged victims of online blackmail to approach the police immediately, assuring confidentiality and swift action.
Mental health professionals emphasize that sextortion victims often experience intense shame, anxiety, and isolation. The fear of social ostracism or parental disappointment can prevent them from seeking help, making them vulnerable to repeated exploitation and, in tragic cases, suicide.
Dr. Meera Kulkarni, a Pune-based psychologist, notes, “Victims need to know they are not alone, and help is available. Families and institutions must create a supportive environment where young people feel safe to speak up.”
