Taiwan ‘Red Sister’ scam: fake women lure over 4,500 victims

A major online sextortion ring in Taiwan has been dismantled, with three men accused of posing as women to lure thousands of male internet users into explicit video chats, secretly recording the encounters and selling the footage.

Prosecutors in Taichung said the group used pre-recorded videos and voice-changing software to simulate real-time interaction, deceiving victims into exposing themselves on camera. The recordings were then categorized and sold for profit.

Authorities said at least 4,586 victims across Taiwan were affected, including minors, influencers and athletes. More than 20,000 explicit clips linked to the case have been seized.

The investigation began with the arrest of a National Taiwan University law student in May 2025, who allegedly targeted over 300 victims using similar tactics. Further inquiries led to two additional suspects, who are believed to have collaborated in expanding the operation.

One suspect had reportedly been refining impersonation techniques since 2017. The group sold the illicit footage for between NT$250 and NT$2,300 per clip and shared files via cloud platforms, enabling wider circulation.

Prosecutors condemned the operation as highly exploitative, warning of lasting harm to victims. The suspects have been charged with offences including child and youth sexual exploitation and privacy violations, with authorities seeking heavier sentences.

Officials urged the public to remain cautious when interacting online and to avoid engaging in explicit activities with strangers.