Fake Telegram Profile Scams Men Out of Thousands in Illegal Sex Service Ruse

A fake Telegram profile posing as a provider of illegal sex services has defrauded men in central Israel of thousands of shekels. The scam, possibly run by an organized network rather than a single woman as claimed, involves sending nude photos and videos to men seeking paid sexual encounters, then demanding a one-time ATM withdrawal code in exchange for a meeting. After the money is withdrawn, the profile disappears and blocks the victim.

Victims report losing between 1,200 and 5,000 shekels. Most are reluctant to report the scam due to fear of legal repercussions, as purchasing sex is illegal in Israel since 2020, and concern over public exposure. One victim, "Roni," a married man from Tel Aviv, said he was lured by nude images and transferred 1,500 shekels before being blocked. Another, "Benny" from Rishon Lezion, described a similar experience involving a hotel meeting and a 1,200-shekel withdrawal code.

A third victim, "Danny" from Herzliya, transferred 2,500 shekels for a promised six-hour encounter but never met the supposed woman. He admitted he would not report the scam due to embarrassment. Another man, "L," who lost 5,000 shekels, did file a police complaint, but the case was closed after investigators failed to locate the suspects. He later hired a private investigator and discovered the profile resumed activity.

This scam method was first exposed by the media over four years ago, with similar outcomes where police could not identify the perpetrators. Authorities warn that such scams are difficult to trace on platforms like Telegram, where users frequently change phones and identities. Police urge victims to report incidents with detailed information and advise against sharing withdrawal codes or transferring money through payment apps.

The scam exploits the victims’ fear of legal consequences and social stigma, ensuring their silence and enabling the fraudsters to continue operating with impunity.