In a remarkable intervention, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has saved the lives of 62 young women who were on the verge of suicide after facing online harassment, sextortion, and cyberbullying. A majority of these women had reached out to the helpline run by Brush of Hope, an NGO that works in collaboration with Maharashtra Cyber. Through the helpline, several victims were identified, counselled, and rescued before they could harm themselves. Officials said some victims had even posted distress messages or farewell notes on social media before they were traced and helped in time.

One such case involved a 19-year-old student from Mumbai who had recently moved to the city for her studies. She fell victim to a digital extortion trap after booking a scooter ride from Andheri to Matunga through an app. The driver allegedly cancelled the ride without informing her but still picked her up.