What is Digital Arrest?

What Is The “Digital Arrest” Scam & How To Avoid It?

With the rapid rise of digitalisation in India, cyber fraud has become increasingly common, and sophisticated, targeting individuals across all walks of life. Among the latest threats is the “Digital Arrest” scam, a scheme that manipulates fear to force victims into compliance. Typically, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or government officials, using realistic video calls and fabricated documents to make their threats appear genuine. Under the pretext of immediate arrest, they pressure their victims into transferring money or disclosing sensitive information.

What makes this scam particularly alarming is its reach. From the average citizen to high-profile executives, anyone can become a target. With the scam’s clever use of technology, including video conferencing and digital manipulation, even the savviest individuals have found themselves ensnared by these fraudsters.

In this blog, we’ll explore how the digital arrest scam works, share real-life examples of its impact, and provide crucial guidance on safeguarding yourself and your organisation. By raising awareness and fostering vigilance, we can each take steps to stay secure in a digital world filled with evolving threats.

What Is The “Digital Arrest” Scam?

A “Digital Arrest” scam is a new-age scam that leverages technology to deceive and exploit people by simulating an official arrest scenario online. Fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or government officials, using methods like video calls, falsified documents, and other digital tactics to convince their targets that they are under legal scrutiny. Unlike a physical arrest, a digital arrest is purely virtual, created to manipulate victims into believing that immediate action—usually involving a transfer of money—will save them from severe consequences.

The scam capitalises on people’s fears of legal repercussions and relies on the victim’s trust in authority figures. By using digital platforms to deliver their threats, scammers can intimidate individuals and coerce them into compliance without ever coming into physical contact. As a result, the digital arrest scam has seen a worrying rise, with reports suggesting that it has impacted thousands, from average citizens to high-profile professionals.

This scam draws attention to the larger issue of digital fraud and the need for enhanced due diligence practices, as highlighted in recent due diligence guidelines issued by the RBI. Financial institutions and businesses now place increasing importance on digital identity verification and background checks to protect consumers from fraudulent activities.

How The “Digital Arrest” Scam Operates?

The digital arrest scam is a carefully planned act that plays on fear and urgency. By pretending to be officials from reputable organisations, scammers manipulate victims into following their demands. Here’s how it usually unfolds:

Step 1: The Fake Phone Call or Message

The scam often begins with a simple message or phone call, which might appear to be from a bank, telecom provider, or even a courier service. The message typically warns the recipient about a legal issue or suspicious activity linked to their accounts, creating a sense of urgency. The victim is then directed to press a number or reply to connect with a “representative.” Once connected, the victim finds themselves speaking to someone posing as an official from a government agency or law enforcement body.

Step 2: Pretending to Be the Police or Government

On the call, the scammer escalates the tension, using personal information like the victim’s name, ID number, or address to appear credible. They then claim the victim is involved in serious crimes, like money laundering or tax evasion, to increase anxiety. In many cases, the scammer asks the victim to switch to a video call, making the interaction seem even more realistic. During the video call, scammers may appear in uniforms or set up fake “official” backgrounds to add authenticity. Victims are sometimes shown falsified documents, like arrest warrants, further cementing the illusion of legitimacy.

Step 3: Demanding Money Right Away

With the victim sufficiently alarmed, the scammer introduces a way to “resolve” the issue. They request immediate payment as a “fine” or “security deposit” to prevent arrest or other legal actions. These payments are usually demanded via untraceable channels, such as cryptocurrency or prepaid cards, which makes it nearly impossible to retrieve the money once transferred. Scammers often keep the victim on the call throughout the process, using high-pressure tactics to prevent them from consulting others or seeking advice, pushing them to comply quickly.

Recent Cases Of “Digital Arrest” Scam

The digital arrest scam has ensnared individuals across various demographics, including senior citizens, by exploiting their trust and unfamiliarity with digital communication. Below are real-life instances illustrating the scam’s impact:

Case 1: High-Profile Businessman Defrauded

In September 2024, S.P. Oswal, chairman of Vardhman Group, was deceived by fraudsters posing as federal investigators. They orchestrated a fake online Supreme Court hearing, complete with an impersonator of former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, coercing Oswal into transferring approximately ₹6.9 crore ($830,000) under the threat of arrest. Authorities arrested two individuals and recovered $600,000, marking a significant recovery in such cases.

Case 2: Senior Citizen Duped by Fake Law Enforcement

A 72-year-old woman received a call from individuals claiming to be police officers, informing her of a legal case against her. Under the pretext of helping her avoid arrest, they coerced her into transferring a substantial amount of money.

Case 3: Doctor Defrauded Through Video Call

Dr Anvitha, a renowned doctor, received a late-night call from someone posing as a CBI officer, claiming a money laundering warrant was issued against her. She was told she was under digital arrest and must participate in a video call. Terrified, Dr. Anvitha transferred ₹70 lakh to the scammer’s account.

Case 4: 70-year Old Retired Engineer Tricked To Losing His Life Savings

A 70-year-old retired engineer from Delhi lost over Rs 10 crore to fraudsters who impersonated law enforcement officials. The scammers deceived him into transferring his life savings by fabricating a story about a drug parcel linked to his name and threatening him with arrest.

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How To Recognise A Digital Arrest Scam?

Spotting red flags is key to avoiding the Digital Arrest scam. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

  • Unsolicited Contact: Law enforcement rarely contacts individuals out of the blue via phone or email.
  • Immediate Threats: Genuine officials do not threaten arrest or demand payment without due process.
  • Untraceable Payment Methods: Requests for cryptocurrency or gift card payments are clear indicators of fraud.
  • Poor Grammar: Emails or messages with spelling and grammatical errors are often fraudulent.

Preventive Measures Against Digital Arrest Scams

The Government of India and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) have issued specific guidelines to help citizens protect themselves from digital arrest scams. Here are actionable steps based on these official directives:

  1. Stay Calm and Do Not Panic

Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into making hasty decisions. Remember, legitimate law enforcement agencies do not issue arrest warrants or demand payments over the phone or video calls. If you receive such a call, remain composed and do not act impulsively.

  1. Verify the Caller’s Identity

If someone claims to be a government official, do not trust the call blindly. Disconnect and contact the relevant agency directly using the official contact information available on their official websites. This step ensures you are communicating with a genuine representative.

  1. Do Not Share Personal Information

Avoid disclosing sensitive personal or financial details over the phone, especially to unknown callers. Government officials will not ask for such information through unsolicited calls or messages.

  1. Be Wary of Unsolicited Communications

Scammers may contact you via phone calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from courier companies, banks, or government agencies. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before responding or taking any action.

  1. Report Suspicious Activities

If you encounter a suspected digital arrest scam, report it immediately to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in or call the cybercrime helpline at 1930. Prompt reporting can help authorities take swift action against scammers.

  1. Educate Yourself and Others

Stay informed about common scam tactics and share this knowledge with family and friends, especially those who may be less familiar with digital communication. Awareness is a crucial defence against falling victim to scams.

How Can Businesses Prevent Digital Arrest Scams?

As cyber scams like digital arrest fraud continue to evolve, businesses are recognising the need to fortify their defences, not just for their security but also to protect their customers and partners. Companies like AuthBridge play a crucial role in this fight, providing technology-driven solutions that enhance security, streamline verification, and ensure compliance. Here’s how AuthBridge’s offerings empower businesses to stay ahead of such threats:

1. Streamlined Digital Onboarding and Verification

The digital arrest scam highlights how scammers use fake identities to impersonate officials and deceive victims. For businesses, verifying the identity of new customers, employees, and partners is essential in building trust from the first interaction. AuthBridge’s Digital KYC solutions, powered by AI-driven biometric checks and OCR technology, offer instant, reliable identity verification. This ensures that businesses interact only with genuine individuals, minimising the risk of falling prey to imposters.

2. Comprehensive Employee and Leadership Screening

Employee integrity is foundational to safeguarding an organisation against internal threats, including fraud or misuse of authority. Through platforms like iBRIDGE for employee background checks and AuthLead for executive vetting, AuthBridge provides businesses with thorough screening tools. By verifying educational, professional, and criminal records, as well as conducting detailed reference checks, companies can onboard individuals who align with their values and security standards, reducing the risk of fraudulent activity within their ranks.

3. Vendor and Third-Party Due Diligence

Partnering with vendors or third parties can introduce risks if they’re not thoroughly vetted, especially with scammers becoming increasingly sophisticated. our OnboardX platform provides comprehensive digital onboarding and due diligence checks for vendors and third parties. With background verification, risk profiling, and financial health checks, businesses can ensure they collaborate only with trusted partners, creating an additional layer of protection against fraud.

4. Criminal Record Verification and Compliance Monitoring

As digital arrest scams involve manipulation of legal fears, having access to verified criminal records and compliance checks is invaluable. Vault leverages extensive databases to perform criminal background checks and monitor legal compliance, ensuring that individuals associated with fraudulent or criminal activities are identified and flagged. This tool enhances security by helping businesses avoid engagements that could expose them to legal risks or reputational damage.

5. Educating and Empowering Teams Against Cyber Threats

In the fight against scams, awareness is one of the most effective defences. AuthBridge works closely with businesses to promote cybersecurity awareness and build a culture of vigilance among employees. Through regular updates on emerging threats and best practices for handling suspicious activity, companies can equip their teams with the knowledge needed to recognise and report potential scams, helping to minimise organisational risk.

Conclusion

In a time when scams like digital arrest fraud are on the rise, companies must take proactive steps to protect themselves and their stakeholders. By implementing advanced verification tools and promoting awareness, businesses can stay resilient against the tactics of cybercriminals. AuthBridge’s suite of solutions offers the technology, expertise, and support needed to secure digital interactions, strengthen compliance, and build a safer, more trusted environment.

FAQs around Digital Arrest Scam

In India, a “digital arrest” is a scam where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement through video calls, using fake arrest warrants and legal proceedings to extort money or personal information. Indian law does not recognise arrests conducted digitally; legitimate arrests require in-person procedures as per legal mandates.

A digital arrest in India refers to a scam where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials. For example, a Hyderabad tech professional was virtually interrogated over a video call, accused of money laundering, and coerced into transferring funds to avoid a fake arrest.

To safeguard against digital arrest scams in India, consider the following precautions:

  1. Verify Caller Identity: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement or government official, independently confirm their identity by contacting the relevant agency through official channels. Legitimate authorities do not initiate legal proceedings via phone calls or video calls.

  2. Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid disclosing sensitive details such as Aadhaar numbers, PAN, bank account information, or OTPs over the phone or online platforms, especially to unknown or unverified sources.

  3. Stay Calm and Do Not Succumb to Pressure: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to elicit quick responses. Remain composed, do not make hasty decisions, and take time to assess the situation.

  4. Report Suspicious Activities: If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in or call the cybercrime helpline at 1930. Prompt reporting can help prevent further incidents.

  5. Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scam tactics and share this knowledge with family and friends to build a community aware of such threats.

To stay safe while using digital devices, it’s essential to follow guidelines recommended by the Government of India and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). Here are the key precautions:

  1. Secure Your Devices:

    • Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) where available.
    • Regularly update your device software to patch vulnerabilities.
    • Install and update antivirus software to protect against malware.
  2. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions:

    • Refrain from accessing banking or sensitive accounts over public Wi-Fi. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure browsing.
  3. Be Cautious with Emails and Links:

    • Avoid clicking on unsolicited links or attachments. Phishing emails often mimic official communication to steal sensitive information.
  4. Verify Communications:

    • Government agencies or banks will not request sensitive details (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN, OTPs) over calls or messages. Verify any such communication through official channels.
  5. Enable Device Security Features:

    • Use device locking features like PINs, patterns, or biometrics.
    • Enable remote wipe capabilities to erase data if your device is lost or stolen.
  6. Report Suspicious Activities:

  7. Educate Yourself and Others:

    • Stay informed about cyber threats and share knowledge with friends and family, particularly those less familiar with technology.

If you receive such a call:

  • Stay calm and avoid panic.
  • Do not share any personal or financial details.
  • Disconnect the call immediately.
  • Verify the claims by directly contacting the official organisation through their publicly listed numbers.
  • Report the incident to the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or call 1930.

No, video calls are not used for legal proceedings, arrest warrants, or interrogations in India. Scammers may use video calls with fake uniforms or staged backgrounds to create a false sense of authority. Always verify such communications through official channels.

  • The caller demands immediate payment to avoid arrest.
  • The use of platforms like WhatsApp or Skype for “official” communication.
  • The caller shares incomplete or incorrect personal details to gain trust.
  • Threats of severe legal consequences without providing legitimate documentation.

Recovering losses can be challenging but not impossible:

  • Report the fraud immediately to the cybercrime helpline (1930) and your bank.
  • Provide evidence such as call recordings, transaction details, and any messages to authorities.
  • Early reporting increases the chances of recovery.

Digital Arrest Scam Victims can:

Senior citizens are often targeted because:

  • They may lack familiarity with digital communication methods.
  • Scammers exploit their trust and fear of legal complications.
  • Education campaigns tailored to senior citizens can reduce their vulnerability to scams.
Suspect Registry

Suspect Registry & Samanvay Platform Launched: Read All Key Details

On 10th September 2024, the Government of India launched several initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s cyber security with the launch of the National Suspect Registry. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while addressing the first Foundation Day of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) in New Delhi, announced this initiative, alongside several other platforms aimed at strengthening the country’s cybercrime prevention efforts.

During his address, Home Minister Shah stressed that the growing reliance on digital platforms has made countries like India vulnerable to cyber threats, necessitating stronger and more coordinated measures to protect citizens and institutions from online fraud and cyberattacks. The introduction of the Suspect Registry and other initiatives launched under I4C are essential to mitigate these expanding threats.

What Is the Suspect Registry?

Among the many initiatives unveiled during the event, the Suspect Registry stands out as the most important development. This national database, having data on 1.4 million cybercriminals, will track individuals suspected of cyber-related crimes, bringing together information from banks, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies. The national-level coordination ensures that cybercriminals cannot exploit jurisdictional boundaries, creating a united front to tackle cross-border cybercrime.

The Suspect Registry fetches data from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and works in close collaboration with banks and financial bodies. By strengthening fraud risk management across the financial sector, this initiative offers greater protection to users engaged in digital transactions, safeguarding them against cyber fraud and online scams.

Cybercrime Portal

A key theme highlighted during the event was the importance of collaboration in securing cyberspace. The Home Minister reiterated that a single institution cannot single-handedly ensure cyber security; instead, coordinated efforts across various sectors are required to secure the digital landscape. The Suspect Registry, along with initiatives such as the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) and the Samanvay portal, exemplifies this collective approach.

The CFMC is another crucial part of the cybercrime prevention framework, designed to foster seamless collaboration between law enforcement, financial institutions, and telecom providers. By identifying patterns and techniques used by cybercriminals, the CFMC will play a crucial role in preventing future cybercrime, making the nation’s cyber defences more robust and resilient.

Launch Of The Samanvay Platform

Another important initiative launched during the event is the Samanvay Platform, a web-based module designed to act as a central hub for law enforcement agencies across India. It provides a data repository for cybercrime reports, facilitates data sharing, and aids in crime mapping and analytics. This system is expected to revolutionise how law enforcement agencies cooperate in fighting cybercrime.

IC4

One of the platform’s key features is its ability to integrate data from multiple sources, offering a comprehensive overview of cyber threats. This level of coordination between various agencies, including state and central police forces, banks, and financial intermediaries, ensures that cybercriminals have fewer places to hide. By pooling resources and data, the Samanvay Platform creates a united front that can respond swiftly to threats, greatly improving the country’s ability to tackle cybercrime in real-time.

Cyber Commandos Programme

A key highlight of the launch event was the unveiling of the Cyber Commandos Programme, an elite task force created to combat complex and evolving cyber threats. In a time when cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and harder to detect, this programme seeks to build a force of 5,000 highly trained cyber commandos over the next five years.

These cyber commandos will operate at state and central levels, offering expert support to local agencies while ensuring a coordinated national response to cybercrime. Their training will focus on advanced techniques in cyber forensics, data security, and threat detection, equipping them to handle everything from online fraud to state-sponsored cyberattacks.

Cybercommando

The creation of a cyber commandos force reflects a forward-thinking approach to modern threats. With digital transactions skyrocketing in India, the need for a highly specialised team that can quickly address complex cybercrimes has never been more urgent. 

Importance Of Public Awareness In Preventing Cybercrime

During the event, the Honourable Home Minister of India emphasised the need to educate the public about cybercrime and the importance of reporting incidents to the proper authorities. The National Cybercrime Helpline 1930, launched as part of the I4C initiative, was highlighted as a vital tool in this effort.

The Minister urged state governments to amplify the awareness campaign through various media channels, including TV, radio, cinema halls, and digital platforms. He noted that many people fall victim to cyber fraud because they are unaware of how to protect themselves or where to report such crimes. By making the public more informed, the government hopes to reduce the number of cybercrime victims and make India’s digital space a safer environment.

Public awareness campaigns will be further supported by the “Cyber Dost” initiative on social media, which has already been instrumental in spreading tips and guidelines on staying safe online. The government’s vision is to make cybercrime awareness as widespread as possible, ensuring that every citizen knows about the dangers lurking online and how to avoid them.

Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre

The launch of the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) represents another major milestone in India’s fight against cybercrime. The CFMC will serve as a collaborative platform that brings together representatives from banks, financial intermediaries, telecom companies, and law enforcement agencies to tackle online financial crimes.

One of the most important aspects of the CFMC is its ability to quickly share data between sectors. By doing so, it enables faster identification of cybercriminal activities, including phishing, identity theft, and financial fraud. The CFMC will play a crucial role in identifying the modus operandi of cybercriminals, allowing for quicker response times and more effective prevention of financial fraud.

Why Cybercrime Prevention Matters?

As India’s digital landscape continues to grow, so too does the importance of cyber security. With over 95 crore internet users as of March 2024 and the majority of the population engaging in online transactions, the need for robust cyber defences has never been greater. Amit Shah highlighted that nearly half of the world’s digital transactions now take place in India, making the country a prime target for cybercriminals.

These initiatives – the Suspect Registry, Samanvay Platform, Cyber Commandos Programme, and the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre – represent a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to addressing these challenges. By focusing on prevention, coordination, and public awareness, the Government of India is setting the stage for a more secure digital future.

Legal Framework To Prevent Cybercrimes In India

One of the critical elements supporting these new cyber reforms is the country’s updated legal framework. The Indian government has already taken steps to integrate technology-driven solutions into its legal system, with the introduction of three new laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). These laws are designed to give law enforcement agencies the legal authority they need to tackle cybercrime effectively.

By modernising the legal framework, the government is ensuring that it can keep pace with rapidly advancing technology. This includes provisions for scientifically driven investigations and measures to improve the quality of cybercrime probes. These laws are expected to serve as a foundation for strengthening the country’s ability to prosecute cybercriminals and deter future crimes.

Conclusion

The launch of the Suspect Registry, alongside other key initiatives such as the Samanvay Platform, Cyber Commandos Programme, and the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre, underscores the Government of India’s commitment to addressing the growing threat of cybercrime. These efforts signal a move towards a more secure, coordinated, and resilient digital space that protects citizens and strengthens the nation’s digital economy.

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