Fake WhatsApp video calls are a sextortion technique used by cyber criminals who broadcast pre-recorded intimate videos during a call, screenshot what appears on your screen, and then blackmail you for money. This scam has caused significant financial and emotional harm across India. Here is exactly how it works and how to protect yourself.
What Is the Fake WhatsApp Video Call Scam?
In this scam, a criminal calls you on WhatsApp from an unknown number. During the call, they stream a pre-recorded video using virtual webcam software (such as ManyCam) that replaces their real webcam feed with the fake video. They simultaneously record your screen. After disconnecting, they send you a screenshot and demand payment to prevent them from sharing it with your contacts or posting it online. This is a form of cyber sextortion and is punishable under Section 66E and Section 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
How Do Cyber Criminals Fake WhatsApp Video Calls?
Criminals use virtual webcam software like ManyCam or XSplit VCam that replace the device’s real camera feed with any pre-recorded video. When they initiate a WhatsApp or video call, the calling app uses this fake video feed instead of their actual camera. Even if the victim never disrobes or participates, the screenshot can be edited to appear incriminating.
How to Spot a Fake WhatsApp Video Call?
- Poor video quality — Fake videos are often low-resolution or contain visual artefacts inconsistent with a live stream.
- Proportionally incorrect dimensions — Resizing a pre-recorded video distorts the aspect ratio, making faces appear unusually wide or tall.
- Video loops back to the beginning — If the video repeats, it is pre-recorded rather than live.
- Abrupt video cut but call continues — The video feed may stop suddenly while the call remains active.
- Unknown caller — The call always comes from a number not in your contacts, often an international number.
- No lip sync between audio and video — A pre-recorded video will not synchronise accurately with real-time audio.
How to Protect Yourself from Fake WhatsApp Video Call Scams?
- Do not answer video calls from unknown numbers — If you do not recognise the number, decline the call immediately.
- Never engage with the content during the call — Hanging up immediately prevents the criminal from obtaining any usable screenshot of you.
- Do not pay the blackmailer — Payment never stops extortion. Read our guide on what to do if someone is blackmailing you on social media.
- Block and report on WhatsApp — Open the chat, tap the sender’s name, and select “Report” and “Block”.
How to Report Fake WhatsApp Video Call Fraud in India?
- National Cyber Crime Helpline: Call 1930 immediately.
- Online portal: File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
- Cyber crime police station: File an FIR with the caller’s number, screenshots, and extortion messages.
For expert forensic investigation, contact cyber expert Anuraag Singh.
