Cybercriminals often trick people by making them scared. One of their newest ways to cheat innocent people is by taking advantage of their fear of the police or government officials. This method, known as the “Digital Arrest” scam, works by making people worry about getting into legal trouble. Many victims fall for it because they don’t know how to spot the warning signs. “Digital Arrest” scams can be very convincing. People are often afraid of getting into legal issues, even if they have done nothing wrong. This fear makes it easier for scammers to fool them. For example, the scammer might say something like, “You have an unpaid fine or illegal activity linked to your name.”
NEW DELHI : Cybercriminals often trick people by making them scared. One of their newest ways to cheat innocent people is by taking advantage of their fear of the police or government officials. This method, known as the “Digital Arrest” scam, works by making people worry about getting into legal trouble. Many victims fall for it because they don’t know how to spot the warning signs.
These scammers pretend to be police officers or government authorities and send fake messages or calls, saying that the person is involved in illegal activities. They create panic by claiming the victim could face serious consequences, like being arrested. This fear makes people do what the scammers want, such as paying money or sharing personal information, to avoid the fake legal trouble.
“Digital Arrest” scams can be very convincing. People are often afraid of getting into legal issues, even if they have done nothing wrong. This fear makes it easier for scammers to fool them. For example, the scammer might say something like, “You have an unpaid fine or illegal activity linked to your name.” Such messages create instant panic and make people respond quickly without thinking.
The scam relies on urgency. The criminals often say things like, “You need to act immediately to avoid arrest,” or “Failure to respond will result in legal action.” These words are designed to pressure the victim into making rash decisions, like transferring money or sharing confidential details like bank account numbers or OTPs.
It’s important to stay calm and not react to such threats. Always double-check any claims made by such messages or calls by contacting the official police station or government department directly. Remember, authorities usually do not ask for payments over the phone or send threatening messages. By being aware of how these scams work and sharing this knowledge, more people can avoid falling into these traps.
If you receive a message or call like this, don’t panic. Instead, think carefully and take steps to verify the information. Educating yourself and others about the “Digital Arrest” scam can help prevent more innocent people from becoming victims.
WHAT IS DIGITAL ARREST?
The “Digital Arrest” scam is a type of fraud where scammers pretend to be police officers or legal officials. They contact people through email, text messages, or phone calls, pretending to be from law enforcement agencies. These scammers tell their targets that there is a warrant for their arrest or that they are being investigated for online crimes or cyber offenses. Their goal is to create fear and confusion, making the victim feel pressured to act quickly.
Scammers usually say things like, “You are under investigation for cybercrimes,” or “There is a warrant issued for your arrest.” They often demand money or personal information immediately, saying things like, “You must pay this fine now to avoid arrest,” or “Provide your details to resolve this matter.”
WHY IS IT IN NEWS?
- Cyber scams in India are witnessing an alarming rise, as reported by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), with complaints escalating from 1,35,242 in 2021 to 11,31,221 in 2023, resulting in a total financial loss of ₹27,914 crore between 2021 and September 2024.
- Among the major scams, digital arrest frauds, accounted for ₹1,616 crore in losses from 63,481 complaints.
- “One arrested for cheating senior citizen in ‘digital arrest’ scam”, “Fear of ‘Digital Arrest’ Leads to Rs 13 Lakh Fraud in Pune”, all of these news has become headlines in the recent times and the State Bank of India recently warned its clients about a new fraud module that might lead to threats and severe fines from fictitious legal action by imposters acting as representatives of the Income Tax Department or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
- Recently , the Central government has issued a press release to alert the public about cybercriminals impersonating officials from State/UT Police, NCB, CBI, RBI, and other agencies.
- The Government, in collaboration with Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), has developed a system to:
- Identify and block incoming international spoofed calls that display Indian numbers to mislead recipients.
- Address scams involving fake digital arrests, FedEx scams, and impersonation as officials.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to address all types of cybercrimes comprehensively and in a coordinated manner. I4C has proactively identified and blocked:
- Over 1,700 Skype IDs.
- More than 59,000 WhatsApp accounts used in digital arrest scams.
HOW DOES DIGITAL SCAM WORK?
The Digital Arrest Scam preys on fear and urgency to trick individuals into making payments or divulging sensitive information:
How the Digital Arrest Scam Unfolds
- Initial Contact
Scammers reach out via phone calls, emails, or text messages, impersonating government or law enforcement agencies. Messages often include fake seals, logos, or even legitimate-looking phone numbers to appear credible. - Text Messages (SMS)
Victims receive texts warning about urgent legal issues requiring immediate attention. - Phone Calls
Automated calls or live scammers, posing as police officers or legal representatives, create a sense of urgency and pressure victims into compliance. - Social Media & Messaging Apps
Fraudsters use platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, or similar apps to contact potential victims. - Video Calls
Some scammers impersonate law enforcement officials during video calls, wearing uniforms to intimidate victims. They falsely accuse targets of criminal activities and demand immediate payment or personal information to “avoid arrest.”
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS FOR DEALING DIGITAL SCAM
Scammers use clever tricks to cheat people by pretending to be from law enforcement. To avoid being fooled, you can follow these simple steps:
1. Learn About Scams and Stay Alert
Make it a habit to understand how scams work and what signs to watch out for. You can stay informed by following government warnings, news articles, or updates from cybersecurity companies.
2. Always Check Before Believing
When someone claims they are from the police or other authorities, take a moment to confirm their identity. Never trust blindly—always contact the official source to verify any legal papers they share.
3. Keep Personal Information Private
Avoid sharing important details like your Aadhaar number, PAN card number, bank details, or OTPs over the phone or messages. Also, be mindful of how much personal information you share on social media because scammers often gather details from there to trick you.
4. Don’t Fall for Urgency
“Scammers thrive on creating a sense of urgency.” They want you to feel scared and act quickly. Take your time to think, and if possible, ask someone you trust for advice. Legitimate officials will never force you to decide or pay instantly.
5. Stay Safe Online
Keep your online accounts secure by using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. Only use trusted and secure platforms for financial transactions. To further protect yourself, install antivirus software on your devices and keep them updated regularly.
6. Talk to Someone You Trust
If someone calls claiming they are from law enforcement, let a family member or a friend know. Scammers often try to isolate victims, but discussing the situation can help you stay calm and make better decisions.
7. Share and Spread Awareness
Tell your friends, family, and community about digital arrest scams so they can be careful too. Talk about the importance of cyber safety in schools, workplaces, or even neighborhood meetings to protect more people.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET A SUSPICIOUS CALL OR MESSAGE
If you receive a call or message that seems fishy, follow these steps:
- Do Not Panic: Scammers count on fear to make you act without thinking. Stay calm no matter what they say.
- Do Not Share Personal Details: Don’t give out sensitive information like bank details or OTPs, even if the caller insists.
- Verify the Claims: Check the person’s claims by contacting the official helpline or source. Always use numbers or addresses you find on verified websites.
- Report the Incident: File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or at your local police station. Reporting helps stop scammers and protects others.
- Consult a Lawyer if Needed: If things get confusing, talk to a lawyer to understand your rights and options.
LEGAL PROTECTIONS FOR DIGITAL SCAM
India has strong laws to deal with cybercrimes, and knowing your rights and legal options can help you stay safe. Follow these simple steps to protect yourself:
1. Understand Legal Procedures
“Genuine law enforcement agencies will never demand money or immediate action over a phone or video call.” Always remember that police or other officials have to follow proper legal steps, like sending written notices or meeting you in person for any investigation. If someone claims to arrest or investigate you without these steps, it is likely a scam.
2. Always Verify Caller Identity
If someone calls and says they are from the police or any law enforcement agency, don’t panic. “Cross-check any legal documents shared during the call with the concerned authorities.” You can do this by contacting the agency using official numbers or visiting their office. Never trust a caller blindly, even if they sound official.
3.Know Your Legal Rights
You should know that “no one can be forced to make payments without due process of law.” Scammers might try to scare you by making fake accusations or demands, but remember, you always have the right to ask for proof.
4. Report Suspicious Activity
If you think you’re dealing with a scam, take action right away.
Visit the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in to report the incident. You can also call the cybercrime helpline at 1930 for help.
Additionally, go to your nearest police station and file an FIR (First Information Report) to start a formal investigation.
5.Get Help from a Lawyer
If you feel stuck or unsure, don’t hesitate to talk to a legal expert. “A legal expert can help you navigate the situation, file necessary complaints, and protect your rights.” Lawyers are trained to handle such issues and can guide you on the best way to deal with the scam and ensure your safety.
GOVERNMENT AND LEGAL EFFORTS TO FIGHT AGAINST CYBER CRIME
The Indian government has made many efforts to deal with the rising threat of cybercrime and ensure that citizens are safe online. Here’s how they are tackling the issue:
Recognizing Cybercrime as Serious Offense
The Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) has included cybercrime under “organized crime” in Section 111. This is an important step as it shows how seriously the law considers cybercrime and its impact on society. By treating it as an organized crime, authorities can take stronger action against cybercriminals.
The Information Technology Act, 2000
This law is a key legal framework for handling various online crimes. It addresses issues such as identity theft, impersonation, and online fraud. This act gives the police and other law enforcement agencies the power to investigate and punish those involved in cyber offenses.
Easy Reporting for Cybercrime
The government has set up the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) where citizens can easily file complaints about any cyber-related issue. Additionally, a special helpline number (1930) has been introduced to provide immediate assistance to victims of online scams or frauds.
Educating Citizens About Digital Safety
“Conducting awareness campaigns to educate citizens about digital safety” is another important initiative. The government regularly runs programs and campaigns to inform people about safe online practices. These efforts help citizens recognize scams and protect themselves from falling victim to cybercrimes.
CASE STUDIES
- The Rajasthan High Court recently took suo-motu cognizance of the ‘Digital Arrest scams’ and elaborated the laws in regard to arrest and also, directed the RBI and the government to take steps in regards to the same.
- The Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Allahabad High court recent took steps and denied bail to Cyber Crime fraudsters recently involved in duping people of money.
NATIONAL HELPLINE AND ONLINE REPORTING
HELPLINE NUMBER: 1930
REGISTER A COMPLAINT : CLICK HERE FOR CYBER CRIME PORTAL
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