Rent-a-Boyfriend Scam: A New Trap on Social Media

New Delhi, August 22, 2026 A new form of cyber fraud, operating under the name “Rent a Boyfriend,” has emerged on social media, turning seemingly attractive companionship offers into a financial and privacy threat. According to information shared by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, cybercriminals are using platforms such as Instagram, Telegram and Facebook to target users through eye-catching posters and photographs of young people. The offers range from coffee meet-ups and movie dates to accompanying someone to an event or wedding. The scammers advertise packages such as Rs 499 for a one-hour coffee meeting, Rs 1,249 for a movie date and up to Rs 1,999 for accompanying someone to an event or wedding. Once a person shows interest, the fraudsters begin communicating through direct messages and demand money in the name of booking confirmation, security deposits or advance payments. Victims are often asked to transfer thousands of rupees through digital wallets or QR codes, only to be blocked once the payment is received. The scam also involves the creation of fake profiles using AI-generated images or photographs taken from the internet. After gaining a victim’s trust, the fraudsters may attempt to obtain personal details, phone numbers and private photographs. Such information could later be misused for intimidation or blackmail, making the scam a potential threat not only to people’s finances but also to their privacy. Cyber experts have advised people to remain cautious while engaging in online friendships or responding to such tempting offers. Personal photographs, private information and money should never be shared with unknown individuals, while suspicious links, QR codes and requests to download apps should be ignored. Anyone who quickly seeks personal details, pressures someone to meet alone or asks for money should be treated as a red flag. Those who fall victim to cyber fraud are advised to immediately call 1930 and file a complaint through the cybercrime portal.