Khaberni - In our fast digital world, dating apps have become an integral part of modern communication culture; searching for a partner, or maybe just a friendship. But, have you ever thought that this "app" could end up costing you more than just a dinner? A shocking case, with a father in his fifties and his mid-twenties daughter in Riyadh, highlights the dark side of these apps in Saudi Arabia, and how a single click can turn into a nightmare of blackmail costing thousands, posing an urgent question about digital security in our modern relationships.
Guide to Escaping the Digital "Honey Trap"
The story seems like it's taken from a thrilling movie script; however, unfortunately, it's real and actually happened. The Saudi security forces arrested a father and his daughter after they formed a criminal team specializing in emotional and financial extortion through dating apps.
What exactly happened? (Incident Summary)
The plan was simple and foolproof: the daughter would lure young men through these apps, quickly building a relationship of trust. After that, they were enticed and filmed in intimate situations, and here the father's role began. He took on the task of blackmailing, threatening the victims with publishing their private videos in exchange for large sums of money.
According to investigations, more than 30 young men fell into this trap, and the pair successfully collected approximately 500 thousand Saudi Riyals in a short period that did not exceed three months.
The story ended due to the criminals' excessive confidence; they were caught after committing their crime in the same place, which made it easy for the security forces to monitor and apprehend them. Immediate legal actions were taken, and they were referred for investigation.
How do you avoid falling into the trap?
This incident, despite its gruesomeness, provides important life lessons for users of these platforms. Here is a list of "do's and don'ts" to stay safe:
- Do not trust quickly: Friendly conversations and attractive pictures do not necessarily mean pure intentions. Take your adequate time to get to know the other person and look for any "red flags".
- The first meeting in a public place: This is the first and last golden rule. Always choose a café, a restaurant, or a busy public place for the first meeting. Completely avoid private or secluded areas.
- Beware of "the camera": Never send private photos or video clips, and do not put yourself in a situation that allows filming you in intimate positions, especially at the beginning of dating. Always remember: What is recorded cannot be easily deleted.
Do not share financial information: Never share your bank account information, and do not transfer any sums of money under any pretext, whether it's an "urgent assistance," a "gift," or a "deposit of trust".
