The Cyberabad police issued an advisory warning people against a growing number of cyber frauds being carried out under the guise of online astrology, tantra and “problem-solving” services on social media platforms.

According to the advisory, cybercriminals are targeting people through Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook by posting advertisements offering solutions for personal problems, financial troubles, love marriages, family disputes, business growth and vasikaran services.

Police said the fraudsters initially convince victims to make small payments for the promised services and later demand larger sums on various pretexts. In several cases, victims who stopped paying or blocked the fraudsters were threatened through calls and messages, including threats to harm family members or publish personal information on social media.

According to the advisory, cybercriminals are using fake social media profiles, fabricated photographs, bogus reviews and multiple bank accounts to deceive people. Police also noted that a single gang may operate several fake accounts under different names to target victims.

The police advised people not to trust social media advertisements related to astrology, tantra or instant problem-solving services and urged them to verify the identity of individuals before sending money.

Police also cautioned citizens against sharing personal photographs, family details, bank account information, OTPs or UPI PINs with strangers online.

The advisory stated that victims of cyber fraud should immediately contact the cybercrime helpline 1930 or file complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.