Digital Arrest Scam

These days, Cyber thugs are adopting new methods to make people their victims. One of these is 'Digital Arrest'. Fraudsters call the victim and introduce themselves as the local police or customs officials and threaten victims of a potential arrest for fabricated charges. The victims, in panic try to settle the case, and end up paying thousands, if not lakhs of rupees.

A new form of cybercrime known as “digital arrest” scams is emerging, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials, such as customs officers or police personnel, to deceive individuals into believing they are facing imminent digital arrest for fabricated legal violations

The latest case is of recovery of more than Rs 11 lakh by 'digital arrest' of a girl in Noida. This incident has again attracted the attention of the investigating agencies.

In another case, a 23-year-old woman from Faridabad fell victim to this scam, losing Rs 2.5 lakh to cybercriminals who posed as customs officers.

The perpetrators use digital communication techniques such as video messages or calls to create a feeling of urgency and dread, manipulating victims with fake proof, threatening language, and requests for substantial payments to avert supposed legal repercussions.

In the mentioned instance, the victim was pressured into thinking she was implicated in a passport smuggling incident and might need to pay Rs 15 lakh to avert a "digital detention." She eventually resolved the matter for Rs 2.5 Lakhs. The scammers cautioned her not to disconnect from Skype during the predicament.

Remember to stay safe

1. There is no such thing as digital arrest in Indian law.

2. If you get such a call, don't be afraid, disconnect it. Please tell your family members and friends.

3. Block the numbers from which CBI, ED, Police send notices.

4. Call 1930 or 112 to get rid of your fear.

5. Even if someone takes advantage of fear and comes wearing uniform, call 112.

6. If PCR (police) comes, the fake policeman will run away himself.

7. If any fake police comes, do not open the door, do not give personal details to anyone.

To stay safe from such scams, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Stay sharp, stay aware: Keep an eye out for typical schemes and techniques used by scammers, such as digital arrest frauds.

Always verify who is calling: If someone gets in touch with you saying they are a police officer, custom officials or other officers, ask to see their official identification and contact details so you can confirm who they really are.

Don’t panic: Keep your composure and examine the validity of the circumstances. Real legal issues are generally managed through official processes, not sudden warnings.

Never share personal information, especially your banking details: Do not disclose personal or financial details to people you don't know or who haven't been verified.

Always double-check claims and ask for documents: Independently check the facts regarding legal accusations. Get in touch with nearby police departments or legal officials through formal procedures to validate the truthfulness of any assertions.

Only use official channels for communication: Legitimate law enforcement agencies communicate through official channels. If in doubt, independently contact the relevant agency using publicly available contact information.

Keep yourself updated: Make yourself aware of the typical indicators of scams, like getting unprompted calls asking for money, threats of quick legal proceedings, and appeals for payment through unusual means.