what-to-do-if-you-re-targeted-by-digital-arrest-scam

A retired government official from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, was defrauded of Rs 60 lakh after being falsely accused of money laundering by cybercriminals posing as officers from Delhi’s Crime Branch. 

 

The victim, Pritam Singh Chauhan, a former officer of the Food Corporation of India, reported that the scammers held him under "digital arrest" for six days, coercing him into transferring the large sum of money to multiple bank accounts.

 

What is the 'Digital Arrest' Scam?

 

The "digital arrest" scam is a form of online fraud where cybercriminals use fear and intimidation to trick their victims into transferring money. 

 

It typically involves an initial call from someone posing as a representative from a courier company, informing the victim of a suspicious package linked to their name. 

 

This is followed by threats from a supposed law enforcement officer accusing the victim of serious crimes such as smuggling or money laundering.

 

Victims are pressured into handing over personal details like bank account information, Aadhaar numbers, or social media access under the pretext of verifying their innocence. 

 

Scammers often escalate the situation by making video calls and issuing threats of imminent arrest, convincing the target to comply.

 

How the scam unfolds

 

Initial Contact: The victim receives a call from someone posing as a courier service agent, claiming that a suspicious package containing illegal items has been linked to them.

 

Escalation: The call is then transferred to a fake police officer, who warns of serious criminal charges and impending arrest unless the victim cooperates.

 

Coercion: The victim is pressured into sharing sensitive information or transferring money to "prove their innocence."

 

Prolonged Manipulation: Victims may be kept in a state of fear and anxiety for days, as the scammers continually demand more money or information under the guise of avoiding arrest.

 

This scam preys on people's fear of legal consequences and is part of a growing trend of online frauds that exploit emotional distress to steal money.

 

What can you do?

 

• Do not pick calls from unknown numbers. 
• Be cautious about sharing sensitive information with anyone on a call. Genuine authorities never ask for such details.
• Monitor your accounts for suspicious activities.
• Remember that no one can threaten to arrest you over a phone call.