'Digital arrest' scam: How cybercriminals use fear to empty your bank account

As online scams continue to evolve, cyber criminals are adopting a new and alarming tactic to exploit victims—through the threat of a so-called ' digital arrest.' Scammers create a sense of panic, convincing individuals that they are implicated in criminal activities, ultimately extorting large sums of money. Here’s a look at how this complex scam unfolds, as per a report by TOI.

1. Initial Contact Through Fake Alerts
The scam begins with a simple SMS, email, or WhatsApp message. The message claims that the recipient's name or phone number is connected to criminal activities, such as pornography, drug trafficking, or money laundering. The victim is instructed to call a specific number urgently to avoid a 'digital arrest.' The intimidating message often pressures recipients into immediate action, fearing serious legal consequences.

2. Video Call Impersonation by Fake Officials
Once the victim calls the provided number, scammers escalate the deception by arranging a video call through platforms like Skype or WhatsApp. During the call, fraudsters impersonate officials from recognized agencies such as the Maharashtra Police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), or Customs. To appear legitimate, scammers wear official-looking uniforms and set up backgrounds with government flags, logos, and even VHF radio sounds, making the experience highly convincing.

3. False Accusations to Induce Panic
During the call, the scammers accuse the victim of serious offences like money laundering, drug distribution, or trafficking illegal goods. In some cases, the fraudsters claim that a family member of the victim is under arrest or has been implicated in a crime. The false accusations are designed to create fear and pressure the victim into compliance without seeking external advice.

4. Constant Surveillance and Intimidation Tactics
After establishing a connection, the scammers demand that the victim stay on the video call as a form of 'monitoring' or 'verification.' They continuously intimidate the victim by insisting on maintaining the video connection, effectively keeping them isolated. This constant presence keeps the victim in a state of heightened anxiety, preventing them from consulting friends or family and limiting their ability to think clearly.

5. Extortion as 'Resolution' to the Fictitious Charges
Once the victim is sufficiently terrorised, the scammers demand money to 'clear' the charges. They instruct the victim to transfer large sums of money to bank accounts, which are often mule accounts used to mask the criminals’ identities. These funds are then moved swiftly to evade detection.

Protecting Yourself from 'Digital Arrest' Scams
Experts warn that legitimate government agencies do not operate in this manner. Here are some critical steps to avoid falling victim to this scam:

Be Sceptical: Government agencies do not conduct investigations or arrests via video calls.

Safeguard Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information that can be exploited.

Never Transfer Money: Law enforcement agencies do not ask for payments to clear charges.

Report Suspicious Calls: Immediately report any suspicious interaction to the local police or contact cybercrime helplines like 1930 or report incidents at cybercrime.gov.in.

Gather Evidence: If you receive such calls, record or take screenshots of the conversation as potential evidence.

Real-Life Cases: How Victims Lost Crores
These scams have left several victims in financial ruin, and recent cases highlight the severe impact of these fraudulent schemes.

Retired Consultant Defrauded of Rs 2 Crore
A 79-year-old retired consultant, AV Mohan Rao from Hyderabad, lost Rs 2 crore to fraudsters posing as Mumbai Police officers. The scammers presented a fake digital arrest warrant, complete with seals from the Supreme Court and other government bodies. They claimed that Rao’s Aadhaar details and phone number were linked to money laundering activities. Under intense pressure, he provided his bank details and transferred Rs 2 crore across three transactions.

85-Year-Old Woman Duped of Rs 5.9 Crore
In another incident, an 85-year-old woman from Hyderabad was defrauded of Rs 5.9 crore. Criminals, impersonating cybercrime officials from Mumbai, falsely accused her of involvement in high-profile money laundering cases, allegedly linked to her Aadhaar details. Fearing severe consequences, she transferred the funds as directed by the scammers, believing that non-compliance would lead to her digital arrest.

Inputs from TOI