Several complaints have recently been lodged with the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (Sri Lanka CERT) regarding a new WhatsApp-based video scam targeting Sri Lankans, with suspected links to India.
Officials say the fraudsters use fake Facebook profiles, often posing as attractive young women, to befriend unsuspecting individuals. After building initial contact, they shift the conversation to WhatsApp.
Victims are then drawn into video calls, where the caller poses as a nude woman and attempts to provoke explicit behaviour. Authorities warn that even brief participation or remaining on the call may be enough for scammers to carry out their scheme.
After the call, victims receive manipulated videos falsely showing them in compromising situations. In some cases, these fabricated clips are also sent to the victim’s social media contacts to increase pressure and embarrassment.
The scammers then demand ransom payments, instructing victims to transfer money to bank accounts believed to be based in India, while threatening to circulate the fake content widely online if payment is not made.
CERT officials say that several individuals, including prominent members of society, have reportedly been affected by the scam.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution when engaging with unknown contacts online, avoid suspicious video calls, and immediately report incidents to the police and cybersecurity authorities.
