Online Safety & Fraud Awareness Guide For Youth

In today's digital world, our lives are more connected than ever before. From social media to job portals, online platforms offer convenience—but also come with serious risks. In Andhra Pradesh and across India, there has been a sharp rise in sextortion, online fraud, and cybercrime targeting youth, women, and elders.This guide aims to educate and empower individuals, families, and communities to recognize threats, stay safe online, and take immediate action if they fall victim. Whether you're a student, parent, teacher, or working professional—this guide will help you protect yourself and others from online traps.

What is Sextortion?

Sextortion is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share your private images, videos, or chats unless you send more content or pay money.

Common Signs:

Strangers sending flirty messages or video call requests.

Fake profiles pretending to be attractive men/women.

Recorded video calls or screenshots used for blackmail.

Threats to share content with your family/friends on social media.

How to Stay Safe Online

Social Media Safety:

Set all profiles to “Private” or “Friends Only.”

Ignore unknown friend requests.

Never share sensitive personal info (Aadhaar, phone, location).

Avoid video calls or photo exchanges with unknown people.

Report suspicious accounts to the platform immediately.

Device & App Safety:

Use strong passwords and 2-factor authentication.

Keep your camera covered when not in use.

Avoid third-party apps and unknown app stores.

Use antivirus and keep your system updated.

Beware of Online Frauds

Common Scams :

Fake Job Offers (Dubai, Canada, etc.)

Instant Loan Apps that steal data and harass victims.

Investment Scams on WhatsApp promising huge returns.

Romance and Marriage Frauds on dating or matrimony apps.

Don’t Fall For:

“Pay now, get a job later” tricks.

People asking for your bank details or OTPs.

Links promising lottery winnings, government benefits, etc.

If You're a Victim of Sextortion or Online Fraud

Don’t Panic

Do NOT pay the blackmailer.

Stop communication immediately.

Preserve Evidence

Take screenshots of chats, profiles, threats.

Save payment proof, video call logs, URLs.

Report Immediately

Andhra Pradesh Cyber Crime Police:https://cybercrime.ap.gov.in

National Cybercrime Portal (India):https://cybercrime.gov.in

Cyber Helpline Number (India): 1930

Police Emergency: 100

Women’s Helpline: 181

Parents, Teachers & Youth Safety Tips

For Parents:

Educate children about “online strangers.”

Monitor app usage and social media access.

Use Google Family Link or similar apps.

For Schools & Colleges:

Conduct cyber awareness programs.

Create anonymous help desks for students.

Invite local cyber officers for awareness workshops.

Real Incidents (Andhra Pradesh Examples)

Kakinada: Teenager was blackmailed after an explicit video call. The scammer demanded ₹10,000.

Vijayawada: A college student was lured on Instagram and extorted using fake edited videos.

Nellore: Victim lost ₹75,000 in a fake job scam via WhatsApp promising work in Dubai.

Final Safety Checklist

Do This	Avoid This
Use privacy settings on all accounts	Sharing intimate photos/videos
Report immediately if threatened	Paying blackmail money
Keep screenshots and proof	Accepting friend requests from strangers
Educate family & peers	Sharing OTPs or banking info

Key Links & Contacts

AP Cyber Crime Portal: cybercrime.ap.gov.in

National Portal: cybercrime.gov.in

Cyber Helpline (India): 1930

Police Emergency: 100

Women’s Helpline: 181

Cyber threats are real but awareness is your best defense. By understanding the dangers of sextortion, fake job offers, and online scams, you can avoid becoming a victim. Spread this information among your family, friends, and community. Teach young people not just how to use the internet but how to use it safely and wisely. If something feels wrong, speak up and report it immediately. You are never alone help is always available.