Digital Arrest Scam: What It Is and How to Protect Yourself

A new cyber fraud known as the digital arrest scam has emerged, causing significant financial losses to individuals and businesses, amounting to crores of rupees. Fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials, such as CBI agents or customs officers, to deceive their victims. The scam is so serious that Prime Minister Modi himself has issued a public warning, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to the cyber helpline. Additionally, the Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) has released an advisory detailing how scammers operate and how to stay protected.

What Is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A digital arrest scam is a type of online fraud where scammers manipulate victims into paying large sums of money under false pretenses. The fraudsters intimidate victims by accusing them of illegal activities such as tax evasion or financial misconduct. They then use scare tactics to pressure victims into transferring money, leaving them financially vulnerable.

How Does the Digital Arrest Scam Work?

This scam is carefully orchestrated to exploit fear and urgency. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Initial Contact:
   Fraudsters first call the victim, claiming to be officials from reputed agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), income tax department, or customs.

2. Switching to Video Calls:
   After gaining the victim's attention, they ask to continue the conversation on video platforms like WhatsApp or Skype. This shift adds an air of legitimacy to their claim.

3. Creating Fear:
   Scammers then present a fabricated digital arrest warrant, alleging that the victim has committed crimes such as financial fraud, tax evasion, or violations of legal norms.

4. Establishing Credibility:
   To further convince the victim, they may set up fake police station environments or present fake IDs.

5. Demanding Payment:
   Under the pretext of clearing their name, assisting an investigation, or paying a refundable security deposit, victims are coerced into transferring money to designated accounts or UPI IDs.

6. Disappearance:
   Once the money is transferred, the fraudsters disappear, leaving the victim financially stranded. In some cases, they also use the stolen information for identity theft.

How to Protect Yourself from a Digital Arrest Scam

Awareness is your strongest defense against scams. Here are steps to protect yourself:

1. Be Skeptical of Suspicious Calls:

Genuine law enforcement agencies will never demand money or personal banking details.

Always question any call that claims you are in legal trouble without prior notice.

1. Stay Calm:

Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions.

Take your time, verify claims independently, and avoid panicking.

1. Verify Claims:

If you suspect foul play, directly contact the agency the caller claims to represent. Use official contact details from reliable sources.

1. Avoid Sharing Personal Information:

Never disclose sensitive information like bank account details, passwords, or OTPs to anyone over phone or video calls.

1. Know Official Communication Protocols:

Government agencies do not communicate through platforms like WhatsApp or Skype for official matters. Any such request should raise red flags.

1. Report Suspicious Activity:

If you receive a suspicious call, report it immediately to your local police or cybercrime authorities.

CERT-In emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant and informed to avoid becoming a victim of this emerging cyber threat.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you’ve fallen victim to a digital arrest scam, act swiftly to minimize the damage:

1. Freeze Your Bank Account:

Immediately inform your bank to block any further unauthorized transactions.

1. File a Cyber Crime Complaint:

Report the incident at the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).

1. Gather Evidence:

Save all related information, including call logs, transaction details, and messages. This can be useful for investigations and legal proceedings.

1. Seek Legal Assistance:

Consult a lawyer to guide you through the legal process and help recover losses if possible.

CERT-In’s Advisory

The Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) has issued a public advisory emphasizing the need to stay alert. Their recommendations include:

• Being cautious of unsolicited communication.

• Avoiding the temptation to act hastily under pressure.

• Educating yourself and others about online frauds like the digital arrest scam.

Conclusion

The digital arrest scam is a stark reminder of the importance of staying informed and cautious in today’s digital world. By recognizing the warning signs, verifying suspicious claims, and reporting incidents promptly, you can protect yourself and others from falling prey to such scams. Remember, no legitimate law enforcement agency will demand money or personal details over the phone or through video calls. Stay vigilant, and if in doubt, seek help from authorities or trusted sources.