• Source:JND
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With increased usage of the internet and smartphones, the number of online scams is also growing. One of the most concerning of these is the impersonation of law enforcement officials to extract money, which is being called the “digital arrest” scam. Just recently, a woman from Noida was scammed of over Rs 14 lakh after being convinced she was being investigated. Unfortunately, such cases seem to be on the rise throughout India. Understanding how these scams operate allows one to be more careful and better prepared.

What Is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A digital arrest scam is perpetrated by impersonating officials from the RBI, CBI, Enforcement Directorate, and other similar institutions. They reach out to victims using:

  • Calls
  • Video calls
  • Emails
  • Text messages

As part of the scam, the fraudster alleges that the person is involved in serious matters such as money laundering, drug trafficking, or other sexual offences. Victims are then forced to either transfer money or provide sensitive information to avoid confrontation with law enforcement.

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Common Tactics Used by Scammers

Scammers often use these methods to create panic and urgency:

  • Impersonation of law enforcement using spoofed numbers, fake IDs, and forged documents
  • Threats of arrest or legal action intended to bully victims into submission
  • Isolation of the victim through incessant video calls to prevent them from seeking help
  • Psychological pressure is designed to make victims trust the scammer's alleged authority blindly

How to Identify a Digital Arrest Scam

Stay alert to these protective red flags:

  • Check the identity of the caller by calling back after disconnecting to inquire with the agency through its official web page
  • Do not disclose personal or financial information (OTP, CVV, bank details, social media passwords, etc) to unsolicited callers.
  • Do not make payments using gift cards or wallets, or other unfamiliar platforms.
  • Report such scam attempts to the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal or call 1930.
  • Turn on two-factor authentication on financial and social accounts.
  • Use call filtering or blocking tools to minimise spam and scam attempts.
  • Educate yourself on the arrest procedures and citizen rights to avoid unnecessary panic.

Conclusion

Escaping digital arrest scams requires a combination of composure and information verification; staying calm, confirming claims, and refusing to disclose sensitive information are key ways to evade becoming a victim.

Tell your friends and family about this issue, particularly elderly relatives, because they may be more susceptible to these schemes.