Understanding the ‘Rent a Boyfriend’ Scam in Hyderabad
Indiadailyupdate.com – “Feeling lonely? Want a handsome guy to have coffee with you, go to the movies with you? And that too with 50% OFF!” — This catchy tagline has been appearing on several advertisement posters circulating on social media, prompting the Hyderabad Police to issue an urgent advisory. The rent a boyfriend concept, once a novelty, has now become a target for cyber fraudsters who are exploiting the growing trend of digital dating and companionship services.
The police have warned young women and girls against a new online scam in which fraudsters target them on social media with fake “rent a boyfriend” offers. “This is a new dating trap being set by cyber fraudsters, specifically targeting girls and young women,” Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar, IPS, wrote on X. The advisory highlights how these scammers are capitalizing on the desire for companionship while offering affordable rates to attract potential victims.
How the Scam Operates
According to the police, fraudsters are using platforms such as Instagram, Telegram and Facebook to circulate advertisements offering these services. The rent a boyfriend posters feature photographs of attractive young men and offer various packages, including ₹499 for a one-hour coffee meeting, ₹1,249 for a movie date, ₹1,499 for shopping, ₹1,999 for attending events or weddings, and ₹4,499 for a 10-hour package. The fraudsters also claim to offer complete privacy and security and ask interested users to contact them through direct messages to make bookings.
“The police have cautioned women against sharing sensitive personal information, including their address, phone number and photographs, with strangers, warning that doing so could expose them to further risks such as threats and blackmail.” — Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar
The scammers often use AI-generated images as profile pictures, making it difficult for victims to verify the authenticity of the service providers. Once a woman contacts them, the fraudsters engage her in friendly conversations before demanding money under various pretexts, including booking confirmation, security deposits or advance payments. After receiving the money through digital wallets or QR codes, they block the victim’s account, leaving the victim with no way to recover their funds or contact the fraudster.
Risks and Precautions
The police have cautioned women against sharing sensitive personal information, including their address, phone number and photographs, with strangers, warning that doing so could expose them to further risks such as threats and blackmail. Sajjanar urged young women and parents to remain vigilant about suspicious activity on social media and advised them not to engage in conversations with or meet strangers, or make advance payments for such services. He added that the Hyderabad Cyber Crime wing had taken note of the advertisements and that appropriate action would be taken against those involved.
Parents and guardians are being advised to monitor their daughters’ social media activity and educate them about the potential dangers of online transactions. The rent a boyfriend scam is not limited to Hyderabad, and similar cases have been reported in other cities as well. Women are encouraged to verify the identity of service providers through multiple channels before making any payments.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Rent a Boyfriend Scam
How can I identify a fake rent a boyfriend service?
Look for AI-generated profile pictures, unusually low prices, and requests for advance payments through digital wallets. Verify the service provider’s identity through multiple social media platforms and check for genuine reviews.
What should I do if I’ve been scammed?
Report the incident immediately to the local cyber crime cell. Preserve all communication records, payment receipts, and screenshots of the fraudster’s profile. The Hyderabad Cyber Crime wing has set up dedicated channels for such complaints.
Are there any legitimate rent a boyfriend services in Hyderabad?
While the trend is growing, many services are still unverified. Always check for proper registration, customer reviews, and transparent pricing before availing any service. The police have advised caution until more verification mechanisms are established.
As the rent a boyfriend trend continues to gain popularity, authorities are working to create awareness and implement stricter regulations. Women are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions while exploring new social opportunities online. For more updates on cyber fraud prevention, visit [theweek.in/cyber-security](https://www.theweek.in/news/india/cyber-security.html).
