Elnaaz Norouzi Targeted in Cybercrime Threat Over Private Photos

Elnaaz Norouzi, known for her role in the crime thriller Sacred Games, has become a victim of cybercrime after an anonymous hacker allegedly threatened to leak her private photos.

Reports indicate that the perpetrator tried to blackmail Norouzi using personal images. The actress has taken legal action to address the situation.

The incident began in January 2025, when Norouzi received a suspicious email. What caught her attention was the email’s subject line, which contained her password — a detail that led her to open the message.

Anonymous Threat and Shocking Discovery

In an interview with ETimes, Elnaaz shared the disturbing details:
“On January 18, I got an anonymous email. Normally, you don’t click on such emails, but this one had my password in the subject line. It piqued my curiosity, so I opened it. Inside, I found my private pictures attached, along with a message that read, ‘I have your pictures, if you don’t want them posted online, then reply to me as soon as possible. If not, the next email will be a link with the pictures online.’”

Realizing the severity of the situation, Elnaaz immediately contacted the Cybercrime Cell for help.

Cybercrime Cell Traces Email to Swiss Server

The Cybercrime team acted quickly, responding within two days. Their investigation traced the email’s origin to a server in Switzerland. However, the server was designed to conceal user information, making it difficult to identify the perpetrator.

Elnaaz explained:
“The response was swift, and they got back within two days. The Cybercrime team found out that it was one of those servers where details of the users were not shared. It means that the person behind this crime knew how to evade getting caught. We couldn’t get more information about the user, but they (the Cybercrime team) did terminate the user’s account. I am worried he/she might contact me using a new email account now.”

Potential Security Breach Through Suspicious Link

During the investigation, the Cybercrime team questioned Elnaaz about whether she had clicked on any suspicious links recently. She recalled filling out a form from an unfamiliar source, which may have compromised her personal data.

“I remembered I had filled out a form on an unknown link. The Cybercrime team visited my home, instructed me to back up my data, and helped me format my devices. Now, I’ve updated all my passwords and change them every month. They’re in regular contact with me and have asked me to report any suspicious emails or messages.”

Elnaaz’s case highlights the growing risk of online security breaches, especially through phishing emails and suspicious links.

Emotional Toll on Elnaaz Norouzi

The incident has left Elnaaz deeply shaken. The constant fear of having her private photos leaked online has taken a toll on her mental health.

“Now, I’m scared to even open my emails or social media accounts. I’m terrified that the criminal might have posted my private photos online. I go to bed anxious and wake up in the same state. I’ve had to reach out to a therapist a few times to help me calm down. I feel like my privacy has been violated. It feels like someone is always watching me, and I am living in constant fear.”

The violation of privacy has left her feeling vulnerable and paranoid about her online presence.

Elnaaz’s Career and Public Image

Elnaaz Norouzi rose to fame with her role as Zoya Mirza in the hit web series Sacred Games alongside Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Her performance gained her widespread recognition, establishing her as a talented actress.

She also made her Hollywood debut in Kandahar, starring opposite Gerard Butler in a film directed by Ric Roman Waugh.

Elnaaz remains active on Instagram, frequently sharing glamorous photos and engaging with her fans. However, the recent cyberattack has left her feeling vulnerable about her online presence and privacy.

Hacker’s Tactics and Security Concerns

The hacker’s ability to evade detection by using a Swiss-based server highlights the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals.

The incident underscores the importance of online security and the risks associated with clicking on suspicious links.

Despite the Cybercrime Cell’s intervention, the hacker’s identity remains unknown. The team has advised Elnaaz to stay vigilant and avoid interacting with unfamiliar emails or messages.

Coping with the Aftermath

Elnaaz is now focused on safeguarding her online security and mental health. The Cybercrime Cell has provided ongoing support, ensuring that her digital devices are protected.

To prevent future breaches, Elnaaz now regularly updates her passwords and closely monitors her online activity. However, the emotional damage from the incident continues to affect her daily life.

“I am terrified that the criminal might have posted my private photos online. I go to bed anxious and wake up in the same state. I’ve had to reach out to a therapist a few times to help me calm down. I feel like my privacy has been violated. It feels like someone is always watching me, and I am living in constant fear.”

Importance of Cybersecurity

Elnaaz’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of online safety. Cyberattacks targeting personal data are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential for individuals to protect their information.

Experts advise avoiding unknown links, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication to prevent hacking attempts. Elnaaz’s case highlights how even high-profile individuals are not immune to online threats.