Cyber Scam Alert: How “Rent-a-Boyfriend” Offers Are Trapping Young Women in Hyderabad

A viral social media offer promising cheap dates and handsome strangers is sweeping through town—but top cops say it isn't what it seems. What started as an alluring online trend has suddenly turned into a major emergency, leaving authorities warning young women to step back before it’s too late.

Post Published By: Sreeja Chowdhury

Updated : 11 August 2026, 2:24 AM IST

Rent A Boyfriend Scam (Img: AI Generated)

Hyderabad: "Are you feeling lonely? Do you want to grab a coffee or watch a movie with a handsome guy? And that too at a 50% discount!" A major cyber fraud lies behind these attractive posters circulating on social media with various offers.

This is a new dating-related trap laid by cybercriminals specifically targeting young women. Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has publicly warned about this new scam, which uses 'Rent-a-Boyfriend' offers to lure women and young women.

Various packages are offered under this scheme: ₹499 for a one-hour coffee meeting, ₹1,249 for a movie date, ₹1,499 for shopping, ₹1,999 to attend an event or wedding, and ₹4,499 for a 10-hour package. The fraudsters claim to ensure complete privacy and safety, asking interested users to contact them via direct message to make a booking.

Swindling money under the pretext of advance payment

Police stated that the criminals often use AI-generated images or photos sourced from the internet for their profiles. When young women contact them, the fraudsters engage in friendly conversation and subsequently demand money for booking confirmation, security deposits, or advance payments. Payments are reportedly collected via digital wallets and QR codes, after which the account is blocked.

The police have urged young women and their parents to remain vigilant against suspicious activities on social media. People are advised not to chat with strangers, meet them, or make any advance payments for such services.

Important Information for You

If anyone falls victim to such fraud or comes across a suspicious post, they are advised to immediately report it to the cyber crime helpline (1930) or the National Cyber ​​Crime Reporting Portal.