Rising Threat of ‘Digital Arrest’: How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Fraud

In recent times, the term ‘Digital Arrest’ has been heard frequently in the context of rising cyber frauds. Instead of relying on social media or digital platforms to steal personal information, cybercriminals have come up with a new tactic: calling their victims directly. They impersonate police officers, often claiming that the person is involved in illegal activities like drug trafficking or money laundering, and intimidate them into paying money to avoid arrest. This is a serious scam that has been spreading rapidly, especially in cities like Vijayawada, where high-profile individuals have lost lakhs of rupees to these fraudsters.

What is ‘Digital Arrest’?

Cybercriminals using the ‘Digital Arrest’ method typically call from numbers purportedly linked to police stations in major cities like Delhi or Mumbai. The call might start with the claim that the person has received a parcel containing illegal substances, and they are now under investigation. The fraudster continues to sow fear and panic by refusing to reveal details of the parcel’s origin, and then offers a “solution” to avoid arrest. In exchange for a hefty sum of money, they claim that the person can clear their name. This is where the scam takes root, as victims, already panicked, end up paying large sums thinking they can resolve the situation.

The fraud doesn’t end with one phone call. Scammers continue to use fear tactics, often calling back with new threats or offers to “help” for an additional fee. These scams have escalated in recent days, with some victims losing amounts ranging from one lakh to several crore rupees.

Victims Who Lost Crores

In a recent case in Bharti Nagar, a woman lost Rs. 50 lakhs, and in another case, an individual lost Rs. 40 lakhs. These scams are not just limited to one or two instances, but are becoming more common. As such, the police are urging citizens to be more vigilant and cautious. Once the money is transferred to these criminals, it is almost impossible to recover it. In fact, only about 40 percent of the money in these frauds is recovered.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls:

• Government agencies never make arrests through phone calls, video calls, or messages. If you receive such calls, it’s a clear red flag.
• Always verify the identity of the caller before taking any action. You can call the local police station directly to confirm whether any such claim is legitimate.

2. Do Not Share Personal or Bank Details:

• Never share your OTPs, account details, or personal information with strangers over the phone or through messages.
• Fraudsters often use fake profiles to trick people into revealing sensitive details.

3. Alert Authorities on Suspicious Transactions:

• If you’re asked to transfer large sums of money, especially to an unknown account or to another state, question the reason behind the transaction.
• Bank staff should ask key questions to identify potential scams. These include: “Do you know the person you’re sending money to?” and “Were you pressured into transferring this money?”
• If you’re unsure, report it to the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or visit the nearest police station immediately.

4. Be Cautious of Unsolicited Video Calls:

• Cybercriminals may also use fake video calls, pretending to be officials from CBI, customs, or police departments. Never engage with these calls without verifying their authenticity.

5. Watch for Red Flags:

• If a customer is rushing to transfer money or seems anxious, bank managers should be extra vigilant and ask questions based on police guidelines.
• Fraudsters often prey on people’s emotions, especially during stressful situations, which is why it’s crucial to stay calm and consult with trusted sources before taking any action.

Conclusion:

As cyber frauds evolve, so should our awareness. The rise of ‘Digital Arrest’ scams highlights how easily people can be tricked into losing large sums of money. The key to preventing such crimes is awareness—both on the part of the public and financial institutions. By staying informed, cautious, and questioning any suspicious requests, we can better protect ourselves from these growing cyber threats.