In a deeply distressing case that underscores the growing misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybercrime, a 19-year-old college student from Faridabad, Haryana, died by suicide after being blackmailed with AI-generated explicit photos and videos of his sisters. The accused allegedly demanded Rs 20,000 and threatened to circulate the morphed images online if the ransom was not paid.
The victim, identified as Rahul Bharti, was a second-year student at DAV College. He lived with his family in Baselwa Colony, Faridabad. The local police have registered a case against two accused individuals – including one of Rahul’s acquaintances – based on a complaint filed by the bereaved family.
Timeline of the Incident
According to the investigation, the blackmail began approximately two weeks prior to Rahul’s death. His father, Manoj Bharti, told police that Rahul’s mobile phone was compromised, following which he began receiving threatening messages and altered nude photos of himself and his sisters via WhatsApp.
Manoj revealed that Rahul became extremely distressed and isolated during this period. “He stopped eating properly, avoided conversations, and locked himself in his room for long hours,” Manoj said. His behavior had changed drastically over the previous 15 days.
On Saturday evening around 7 PM, unable to bear the emotional pressure and humiliation, Rahul consumed sulphas (pesticide tablets) inside his room. Though he was rushed to a nearby hospital by family members, doctors declared him dead during treatment.
The Bharti family, originally from Siwan district of Bihar, has lived in Faridabad for nearly five decades. Rahul was Manoj’s youngest child; Manoj works as a driver, and two of Rahul’s three sisters are married while one remains unmarried.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Rahul Bharti (19), Second-year DAV College student |
| Location | Baselwa Colony, Faridabad, Haryana |
| Cause of Death | Suicide by consuming pesticide (sulphas tablets) |
| Accused | Sahil and Neeraj (Rahul’s acquaintance) |
| Blackmail Demand | Rs 20,000 for not leaking AI-generated explicit visuals |
| Primary Motive | Cyber extortion using AI-generated fake images |
WhatsApp Chats Reveal Blackmail and Threats
After Rahul’s death, his father checked his phone and discovered extensive WhatsApp conversations with a man identified as Sahil. The chats revealed that Sahil had sent multiple AI-manipulated images and demanded Rs 20,000, while repeatedly threatening to upload the visuals on social media.
Shockingly, Sahil also mocked and provoked Rahul, even instructing him on methods to end his life. Investigators found evidence suggesting that Rahul’s acquaintance, Neeraj, may also have played a role in the harassment, as he was the last person Rahul spoke to before his death.
Both Sahil and Neeraj have been named in the formal police complaint lodged at the Old Faridabad Police Station. Authorities have begun tracing the digital footprint of both suspects to gather more evidence.
Police Investigation and Cybercrime Warning
Vishnu Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of the Old Faridabad police station, confirmed that both suspects are being tracked. “This case reflects a dangerous and emerging trend – the misuse of AI tools for cyber extortion and digital harassment,” he stated.
According to preliminary investigations, Sahil repeatedly threatened to release the fabricated images and videos if Rahul refused to comply with his financial demands. Police are examining chat records, phone data, and digital forensics to build a strong case under sections related to cybercrime, blackmail, and abetment to suicide.
The incident has raised serious concerns over AI-driven deepfake exploitation in India. Experts urge immediate policy-level actions and awareness campaigns to protect individuals, especially youth, from such emerging cyber threats.
AI Misuse and Preventive Measures
Cyber experts emphasize that AI-generated deepfakes are increasingly being weaponized to manipulate and extort victims. Awareness, early reporting, and stricter digital monitoring are critical to prevent similar tragedies.
The Faridabad Police Cyber Unit has appealed to the public to stay vigilant against unsolicited messages, fake content, and online extortion attempts, encouraging victims to contact cyber helplines immediately.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the darker side of artificial intelligence – where advanced technology, when misused, can destroy innocent lives. Authorities continue to investigate the matter and are urging social media platforms to help trace and remove the morphed content.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest India on thefoxdaily.com.
COMMENTS 0