Cybercrime officials have arrested two individuals accused of orchestrating a ₹50 lakh “digital arrest” scam that preyed on senior citizens through fraudulent online intimidation schemes.
The suspects allegedly posed as law enforcement officers and coerced victims into transferring money by claiming they were involved in criminal cases or illegal financial activities.
How the Scam Worked
According to investigators, the accused contacted victims via video calls or chat platforms, falsely claiming to represent the Cyber Crime Department or CBI.
They would show fake identity cards, fabricated arrest warrants, or staged video backdrops of official offices to create fear and urgency.
Victims were told their bank accounts or phone numbers were linked to illegal transactions, and they must “cooperate” by transferring funds for verification — a method fraudsters call a “digital arrest.”
“The victims, mostly elderly and less tech-savvy, were kept on video calls for hours until they sent money,” said a police official involved in the probe.
Investigation and Arrests
The arrests were made after a complaint filed by a senior citizen who transferred over ₹12 lakh following intimidation by the scammers.
Police traced the digital trail through bank transactions and mobile numbers used for WhatsApp calls.
Authorities revealed that the ₹50 lakh fraud was part of a larger network, with links to cybercrime rings operating from multiple states and even overseas.
The accused have been remanded in custody, and further investigations are underway to identify other members of the syndicate.
Rising Trend of “Digital Arrest” Scams
Law enforcement agencies across India have been warning about the rise in “digital arrest” scams, where cybercriminals impersonate officials to extort money from individuals.
In most cases, victims receive fake legal notices or calls claiming involvement in crimes such as money laundering or narcotics trafficking.
Cybersecurity experts urge citizens to verify any legal communication directly through official channels and to avoid sharing personal or financial details over unsolicited calls or messages.
Police Advisory
Authorities have urged citizens — particularly senior citizens — to remain vigilant and report suspicious calls to the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or through the portal cybercrime.gov.in.
Police also recommend:
Never sharing OTP, bank, or Aadhaar details over phone or chat.
Ignoring threats of arrest or legal action without proper verification.
Informing family members immediately in case of such calls.
FAQs
1. What is a “digital arrest” scam?
It’s a cyber fraud where criminals impersonate police or government officials to intimidate victims into transferring money under the threat of legal action.
2. Who are the main targets of these scams?
Mostly senior citizens and individuals unfamiliar with digital communication or government procedures.
3. How much money was involved in this case?
The total fraud amount was around ₹50 lakh, involving multiple victims.
4. How can people protect themselves?
Never respond to unknown calls claiming to be from law enforcement. Verify identities through official government websites or helplines.
5. Where can such crimes be reported?
You can report to the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or at cybercrime.gov.in.
Published on : 30th October
Published by : SMITA
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