The Alarming Scam Of 'Digital Arrest'
Adopting a new method of digital fraud, cybercriminals swindled ₹1.79 crore from a retired doctor. The fraudsters called the doctor, posing as law enforcement officials. They claimed that the doctor's Aadhaar card had been used in cases involving terrorist financing and money laundering. The victim was terrified by these false allegations.
The scammers placed the victim on a video call and attempted to establish their authenticity as police officers by displaying fake backgrounds and uniforms. They then threatened the doctor with 'digital arrest.' He was told that until the investigation concluded, he could not leave a specific room in his house or inform anyone about the situation; otherwise, he would be immediately jailed.
Amidst this atmosphere of fear, the fraudsters demanded details of the victim's assets and bank accounts. They claimed that to verify the legitimacy of the funds, the entire amount had to be transferred to a designated 'government account.' Panicked, the doctor transferred ₹1.79 crore—comprising his life savings and fixed deposits—to the specified accounts.
After several days passed without any contact or the return of the funds, the victim realized he had been scammed. He subsequently informed his family and lodged a complaint at the cyber crime police station. The police have registered an FIR against unknown cybercriminals and initiated an investigation. Efforts are underway to freeze the bank account where the money was transferred.
The cyber police have issued a warning to the public, clarifying that there is no legal provision for 'digital arrest.' No police force or investigative agency demands money transfers over the phone. The police have urged people not to panic upon receiving such calls and to immediately report the matter to the nearest police station or the cyber crime helpline at 1930.
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