Protect Your Bank Account from Sextortion Scams – What Every Indian Should Know
Online scams are on the rise in India, and one of the most dangerous ones right now is the sextortion scam. It doesn’t just affect your mental peace — it also puts your bank account and savings at serious risk.
At Portal Chakshu, we want to make sure you stay alert, aware, and informed.
Let’s talk about what sextortion scams are, how they work, and how you can protect your bank account in simple terms.
What is a Sextortion Scam?
A sextortion scam is a type of blackmail. It starts with a stranger — often pretending to be a woman — contacting you through WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook. The conversation may seem friendly or even flirtatious at first.
Slowly, they try to convince you to join a video call or share personal photos. Once they get a video or image, they threaten to share it with your family, friends, or colleagues unless you send them money.
This is where your bank account gets involved. Scammers ask for quick payments through UPI, wallet apps, or direct bank transfers. Many people send money out of fear and embarrassment. But the threats often don’t stop — once you pay, they keep asking for more.
Why Should You Be Worried?
Sextortion scams can happen to anyone — students, working professionals, homemakers, and even senior citizens. These scams are not just about personal shame. They can wipe out your savings.
Cybercriminals know how to scare people. Some even pretend to be police officers or cybercrime agents and say that a case has been filed against you. In panic, many people hand over their bank details or send money without thinking.
That’s why knowing what to do — and what not to do — is very important.
How to Keep Your Bank Account Safe?
Your bank account is your hard-earned money. Don’t let scammers get to it. Here are easy steps you can take right now:
1. Never Share Private Info Online
Don’t share your bank account number, OTP, passwords, or UPI PIN with anyone. Real banks will never ask you for this information over phone or chat.
2. Stay Away from Unknown Video Calls
If someone you don’t know tries to video call you, ignore or block them. Most sextortion scams start from such calls.
3. Use Two-Step Security
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your bank apps. It adds another level of safety and alerts you if someone tries to log in.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Bank Statements
Check your transactions regularly. If you notice something odd, contact your bank immediately.
5. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Banking
Public Wi-Fi is not secure. Avoid using it when checking bank accounts or doing any online payments.
What to Do If You Fall Into a Sextortion Trap?
First things first: don’t panic. Scammers rely on fear. Take these steps instead:
1. Do Not Pay
Once you pay, they usually ask for more. Paying does not solve the problem.
2. Stop Talking to Them
Block the person on all platforms. Don’t reply, no matter what they threaten.
3. Collect Proof
Take screenshots of chats, messages, video calls, and payment requests. This will help in filing a report.
4. Report It
You can file a complaint online at cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline at 1930. You can also report it at your nearest police station.
5. Inform Your Bank
If you’ve shared any bank details or made a payment, call your bank’s customer care and ask them to block the account temporarily or watch for unusual activity.
Tips to Stay Safe Going Forward
- Don’t accept friend requests or messages from unknown people.
- Don’t share personal photos or videos online, even in private chats.
- Be careful with what you post online — it can be used against you.
- Lock your phone and apps with a password.
- Talk to someone you trust. Don’t keep it to yourself.
Remember, you are not alone. These scams are common, and there is help available.
Why Portal Chakshu Keeps You Informed
At Portal Chakshu, our goal is to help people stay aware of online threats that can affect their everyday life, especially when it comes to bank accounts and digital payments.
Whether you’re a student who uses UPI daily, a homemaker doing mobile banking, or someone new to online payments, we’re here to share practical advice in simple language.
We regularly post updates and guides about online frauds, financial safety, and cyber scams that affect Indian users. Visit Portal Chakshu for more such stories.
Final Words
Sextortion scams are scary, but they can be prevented. You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. Basic awareness and smart decisions are enough.
Don’t share personal content with strangers. Don’t fall for pressure. And most importantly, protect your bank account like you protect your home — with care.
For more information and safety tips, make sure to check Portal Chakshu regularly. Stay smart, stay safe, and help others by spreading the word.
