A fraudulent scheme offering a ‘Celebrity Escort Service’ has surfaced in a Qatar-based NRI messaging group. The scam, orchestrated by an individual using an Indian phone number, claimed to provide access to two visiting Malayalam actresses. The perpetrator, identified himself as ‘Shyam’, contacted group members via a messaging group, presenting the supposed arrival dates of two Malayalam actresses and demanding a significant sum of money.
Cyber experts warn that this is yet another scam aimed at extracting advance payments from unsuspecting individuals. In a WhatsApp exchange with a member of the group, Shyam detailed the prices for these so-called services, quoting 2500 QAR for one actress expected to be in Doha on 4th and 5th October, and 3000 QAR for another actress arriving on 6th October. He ‘encouraged’ the potential victim to verify the actresses’ identities by searching for their pictures online.
When probed further, the fraudster outlined payment methods and insisted that an identification was necessary. “You can make the payment direct or advance… but you can’t make the direct payment from an anonymous account,” he stated, demanding the NRI’s ID and a video call to confirm identity.
Messages from the fraudster
Shyam also shared a series of ‘terms and conditions’ that included restrictions on certain activities, such as the prohibition of drug use and a requirement for hygiene, and added “They won’t be ready for a**l sex.”
He claimed, “I have 3-4 celebrities… I deliver clients when they reach Qatar. They are coming for another programme. They have sponsors. If they are coming with your invitation, the charge will be different.”
Shyam portrayed himself as an event coordinator based in Kochi, which allegedly gave him access to celebrities. However, he made it clear that there would be no cash deals, demanding either half-payment in advance or full direct payment (after proper identification) through online transactions. He further stated, “Rate has been fixed on Indian currency. No bargain.”
The scam highlights the increasing sophistication of fraudsters, who often prey on individuals by leveraging the allure of celebrity culture.
Interestingly, Shyam has provided the NRI a complete identity with Aadhaar and Passport details, along with his ICICI account details.
This incident adds to the growing number of cybercrimes targeting NRIs through messaging platforms, with scammers increasingly using fake services and personalities to trap unsuspecting individuals into making payments.
