Kerala Teen Sexually Exploited Through Dating App, 14 Accused Arrested; Police Expand Digital De-Addiction Drive

Kerala: In a disturbing case that highlights the dark side of online platforms, a 16-year-old boy in Kerala was sexually exploited after being lured through a dating application. Police have arrested 14 individuals in connection with the incident, including a few government employees. The shocking case has once again raised serious concerns about children’s safety on digital platforms and the growing menace of online addiction.

How the Exploitation Happened

According to investigators, the teenage victim had been using a dating app for nearly two years by creating fake profiles. Through this platform, he was approached by several men who befriended him and later subjected him to sexual abuse. The police noted that the case demonstrates how vulnerable minors can fall prey to predators on such apps, especially when they remain unsupervised online.

Police Response and Arrests

Authorities acted swiftly, booking 14 people on charges of sexual assault and related crimes. The arrested individuals reportedly include men from different professional backgrounds, some of whom hold government jobs. Officials said that further investigation is underway to trace any additional suspects and examine whether the case is linked to a larger network of exploitation through digital platforms.

Expansion of Kerala Police’s ‘D-DAD’ Program

Following this incident, Kerala Police announced that it will expand its Digital De-Addiction (D-DAD) Program, an initiative launched in 2023 to address rising cases of internet and gaming addiction among children. The program, the first of its kind in India, currently operates six centers in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Kannur.

The primary objective of D-DAD is to prevent children from falling into harmful online habits, such as excessive gaming, social media obsession, pornography addiction, and unsafe digital interactions. With the latest case highlighting the dangers of unsupervised digital activity, police say expanding the program is essential to protect vulnerable teenagers from both psychological harm and criminal exploitation.

Government’s Alarming Data on Digital Misuse

The issue of digital addiction and its consequences was recently discussed in the Kerala Assembly. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan revealed that between January 2021 and September 9, 2025, 41 children in the state died by suicide due to the misuse of mobile phones and the internet. During the same period, around 30 minors were found to be involved in cases related to sexual crimes or drug use, leading to legal action against them.

These statistics underline the urgent need for digital literacy, stronger parental supervision, and policy-level interventions to safeguard children in the digital age.

What to Do if You Face Cyber Fraud or Exploitation

Authorities have urged citizens, especially parents, to remain vigilant about children’s online activities. In case of cyber fraud, harassment, or exploitation, victims are advised to:

• Call the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930): Available 24×7 for immediate assistance.

• File a complaint online: Visit cybercrime.gov.in to report incidents.

• Inform your bank immediately: If financial fraud is involved, prompt reporting can help freeze transactions.

• Register an FIR with local police: For legal proceedings and further protection.

Why This Case Matters

The Kerala incident is not an isolated event but part of a wider trend where young people, unaware of digital risks, fall victim to predators and fraudsters. Experts stress that while technology offers opportunities, unchecked usage without awareness can be dangerous. Parents, teachers, and policymakers must work together to build safer online environments and educate children about digital risks