The cases of online scams are taking place at a high pace and what makes it more worrisome is the fact that people are falling prey to such scams even after repeated warnings by the government and police authorities.
It is highly advised that a person should not share personal details, photographs, videos, etc. online with any stranger but still there are many girls who are becoming victims of such scams and as a result, they are experiencing extortion and harassment at the hands of their abuser.
One such incident has taken place in Delhi in which a 23 years old BBA graduate, who worked as a technical recruiter for a prominent multinational company, was leading a sinister double life. Masquerading as a US-based model on dating apps, he coerced young women into sharing intimate photos and videos, which he later used for blackmailing. His actions came to light when a second-year Delhi University student, after enduring months of exploitation and extortion, turned to Delhi Police for help.
The victim had first connected with the accused in January 2024 on a dating app, where he presented himself as a freelance model based in the United States. Their friendly chats eventually led to the exchange of personal and sensitive content. However, this trust was exploited when the man began threatening her with the material, forcing her to comply with his demands. Initially hesitant, the student confided in her family after being overwhelmed by the ongoing extortion, prompting them to file a police complaint.
Investigators, following leads from bank accounts and social media profiles, traced the operation to Shakarpur, a neighborhood in east Delhi. Upon conducting a raid, authorities discovered that the so-called US model was actually Tushar Bisht, a young man living with his family in the area. According to reports, Bisht had built a facade using a virtual international phone number and photographs of a Brazilian model to create convincing online profiles. He regularly posted updates to sustain the illusion of being a foreign model visiting India for work. When victims suggested meeting in person, he deflected with excuses to maintain the charade.
The scale of his operations, as revealed by the police, was alarming. Bisht had reportedly interacted with over 500 women on dating apps and reached 200 more through social media platforms and messaging services. At the time of his arrest, there were at least 60 ongoing extortion cases. Initially motivated by entertainment, Bisht’s actions escalated into a calculated scheme where he would use compromising material to threaten victims with exposure unless they paid him.
This case highlights the vulnerabilities exploited in online interactions and the devastating impact of digital deception. Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover the full extent of Bisht’s actions and bring justice to his victims.
