With technology becoming a part of our daily lives, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit people. One of the latest and most alarming threats is the Digital Arrest Scam. It’s a modern cybercrime that’s rapidly spreading across India, targeting people from all walks of life.
In this blog, we’ll explain what digital arrest scams are, how these scams work, share real-life cases, outline your legal rights, and most importantly—how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Exactly Is a Digital Arrest Scam?
A digital arrest scam is a cyber fraud where scammers pretend to be police officers, CBI agents, or customs officials. They reach out through phone calls, video calls, or emails and falsely accuse you of serious crimes like money laundering, drug trafficking, or customs violations.
Here’s how it usually unfolds:
- You receive a call or video call from someone claiming to be from law enforcement.
- They say you’re involved in a crime and show you a fake “digital arrest warrant.”
- You’re threatened with immediate arrest or legal action.
- In panic, you’re asked to pay money to settle the matter quickly.
- Scammers often use fake caller IDs, Skype, or even deepfake videos to look convincing.
Shocking Real-Life Cases from India
👉 Bengaluru Couple Loses ₹4.7 Crore: In April 2024, an elderly couple was duped by fraudsters pretending to be Mumbai crime branch officers. Over two months, they transferred ₹4.7 crore fearing arrest.
Source: Times of India
👉 Noida Family Trapped for 5 Days: A family in Noida was held under “virtual arrest” via Skype and Zoom calls. Scammers created fake CBI setups and forced them to pay ₹1.10 crore.
Source: Livemint, March 2024
👉 90-Year-Old Man in Mumbai Scammed: A senior citizen lost ₹3.4 crore after being manipulated with fake courtroom proceedings. Police recovered ₹2.2 crore and arrested two culprits.
Source: Economic Times, April 2024
👉 Haryana Businessman Loses ₹77 Lakh: A businessman was tricked by fraudsters acting as government officials. A sports trader from Meerut was later arrested in the case.
Source: Navbharat Times
Laws That Protect You Against Digital Arrest Scams
Several Indian laws cover these kinds of cybercrimes under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and the Information Technology (IT) Act:
- Section 316 (BNS): Cheating by pretending to be someone else—like a police or CBI officer.
- Section 318 (BNS): Dishonest inducement to deliver property or money.
- Section 334 (BNS): Forgery used to cheat—includes fake arrest warrants or legal notices.
- Section 66C (IT Act): Identity theft—using someone else’s identity.
- Section 66D (IT Act): Cheating by pretending to be someone else using digital methods.
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted
✔ Save all evidence: Screenshots of video calls, chats, emails, payment receipts, and call records.
✔ Visit the nearest police station or cybercrime cell and file a complaint.
✔ Report online at the National Cyber Crime Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in
✔ Call 1930, India’s national cybercrime helpline, for quick assistance.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe from Digital Arrest Scams
✅ Stay calm: No real officer will ask for money over a call or video chat.
✅ Don’t share personal details: Never give out OTPs, bank info, or Aadhar details.
✅ Verify before acting: Call the real police station or CBI office directly.
✅ Inform your family: Especially the elderly, who are often targeted.
✅ Avoid unknown links or downloads: These can lead to phishing or malware.
✅ Install caller ID apps like Truecaller: Helps in identifying scam numbers.
Final Thoughts
Digital arrest scams are a dangerous blend of fear tactics and technology. Scammers exploit your panic and trust in the system. But with awareness and timely action, you can protect yourself and help stop this crime.
If you or someone you know gets such a call—don’t panic, don’t pay, and report immediately.
Let’s spread the word, stay informed, and protect each other from these cyber threats.
About the Author
B S Makar, Advocate
Founder, B S Makar Advocates and Solicitors
📍 Mohali, Punjab | 📞 +91-98781-31111
Expert in Cyber Law, Insurance Fraud, NRI Disputes & Civil Litigation For more info please visit our website
