INTRODUCTION: – There are many kind of crimes which have become a habituate disaster in respect of the whole human kind, between which one of the popular crime is scams regarding paid sexual content on telegram which is also in trend and a remaining grave issue in India. It has many way to be connected with this crime but for the purpose of this blog we are only going to focus on technological part. The technology has always been a crucial part, which is playing a dual role in both facilitating and combating this crime. Telegram is one of the popular messaging app, mostly known for its proactive features, has become the target for all kind of scammers, which through this blog we are going to discussed.

BACKGROUND: – The more increasingly use of internet has been conducted in this new generation the types and level of crime. Telegram’s popularity stems from its robust privacy feature, which also includes end-to-end encryption, anonymous accounts, and the ability to create large groups and channels. These features, have also made telegram a well-used platform for scammers. Sexual videos and photo editing scams on this platform involves manipulation of images and videos to deceive victims, threatening them and making profits out of it. Basically making profits from both side one is by selling those videos also another is extorting the money from victims by wrongfully use the video against them.      

KEY ASPECTS: – The related key aspects related to this app is-

• Making deep fake hyper- realistic videos created by using any persons face onto another’s body.
• Photo editing the images in phishing in emails or messages to make them appear credible.
• Making a deep relationship with the victims and extort money.
• Blackmailing by showing explicit videos and images.
• Spreading fake news and harming the reputation of the victims.

PROVISION: – There are some legal provision which can help the victims or the concern person for the purpose to safeguarding, which are-

1. Information Technology Act, 2000.
2. Also, one can seek help through BNS, 2023.
3. And the procedure regarding this is BNSS, 2023.
4. Seek help from Cyber Crime Cell and police station.

CASE LAW: – There are some important cases which may be not directly related to the telegram due to its initial stage, but related to this are-

R.Bharaneeswaran v. The Government of Tamil Nadu (2020), in this case the awareness of cyber bullying has been highlighted. Also, In the case of Halvi.K.S v. The state Of Kerala (2020) also pointed out the cyber bulling.

CONCLUSION: – Online video and editing scams poses a significant threat in the digital age. These scams exploit the trust of internet users and can have severe financial and psychological consequences. Combating this issue requires a necessary approach, including stringent legal provision, to protect the victims from the loss. Our legal experts and senior advocates of Online Legal Query team also there to felicitate the people and can give the probable assistance.