Following the controversy over a “Rent a Partner” social media post ahead of Navratri in Surat, Ahmedabad cyber crime police have warned people that such offers could be traps for financial fraud.
The controversial post offered partners for prices ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000 under Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond categories. The advertisements promised paid companions along with services such as matching outfits, selfie sessions, Instagram reels, fabricated “how we met” stories and personal dancing lessons.
The posts triggered criticism from local activist groups and religious organisations, who objected to the commercialisation of the festival.
Investigators found that several such offers involved AI-generated content and fake profiles and could potentially be used for cyber fraud.
“Such posts are often front operations for financial scams, where victims are tricked into scanning suspicious QR codes, clicking phishing links, or downloading malware disguised as photo and video catalogues,” said Lavina Sinha, DCP-Cyber Crime.
Police Warn of Other Risks
Police said that apart from financial fraud, interacting with unknown people online can also expose users to risks such as extortion and other illegal activities.
People have been advised not to transfer money to unverified social media accounts or strangers. Police said monitoring of such activities has been intensified and strict legal action will be taken against those involved in fraudulent or illegal activities under the guise of festive arrangements.
Victims of financial cyber fraud have been advised to immediately call the cyber fraud helpline at 1930, approach the nearest police station or contact the city cyber crime police station.