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The Rise of Digital Arrest: Safeguard Your Data from Cybercriminals

RBL Bank Sep 30, 2025

There is absolutely no doubt that digitalisation has made life easier. From banking and shopping to communication, everything that we need is just a click away. But with this convenience comes risk. Cybercriminals are constantly inventing new ways to exploit digital platforms, and one of the most alarming threats on the rise today is the “Digital Arrest Scam.”

This scam is not only financially damaging but also psychologically manipulative, as fraudsters trick victims into believing they are facing criminal charges. Understanding how this fraud works, and the steps you can take to stay safe, is crucial in today’s connected world.

What is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A Digital Arrest Scam is a form of impersonation fraud where criminals pose as law enforcement officials and falsely accuse victims of involvement in serious crimes such as:

  • Drug trafficking
  • Money laundering
  • Terror financing

The fraudster then coerces the victim into an online interrogation via phone or video call, creating a false sense of urgency and fear. Victims are threatened with arrest if they fail to comply, leading many to hand over sensitive details or even transfer their hard-earned money.

How Does a Digital Arrest Scam Work?

Fraudsters follow a well-crafted playbook to trap their victims:

  • Initial Contact: The criminal impersonates a police officer or investigative agency official and contacts the victim through a phone or video call.
  • Fake Evidence: The victim is shown forged papers or videos that make it look like they are involved in crimes.
  • Long Interrogation Calls: Fraudsters force victims to remain on long video calls, using repeated threats of arrest to scare and confuse them.
  • Money Transfer Demand: The victim is told to transfer funds from their account to a so-called “investigation account,” with false assurances that the money will be returned within a few days.
  • Strict Secrecy: Victims are instructed not to discuss the “case” with anyone, isolating them and making them more vulnerable.

This method of intimidation and manipulation has already trapped many unsuspecting Indians.

Other Tactics Cybercriminals Use

While the impersonation scam is the latest form of digital arrest, criminals continue to rely on other cybercrime techniques:

  • Phishing: Fraudulent emails or messages that trick users into sharing passwords or OTPs.
  • SIM Card Swapping: Transferring a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card to intercept OTPs and gain account access.
  • Ransomware: Locking devices or encrypting files until a ransom is paid.
  • Malware: Malicious software that tracks keystrokes or steals personal data.
  • Fake Websites and Apps: Imitation banking or shopping platforms designed to capture login credentials.

Precautionary Measures

Staying vigilant is the best defence against these scams. Here are steps you should always follow:

  • Do not panic: Police or investigation teams never question people through video calls.
  • Verify identities: Be wary of unsolicited calls, messages, or emails claiming to be from law enforcement or banks.
  • Never share personal or financial details with unknown individuals or organisations on phone calls, emails, or social media apps.
  • Protect your digital accounts:
    • Use strong, unique passwords.
    • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
    • Keep your devices and apps updated.
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking or financial transactions.
  • Report immediately:
    • If you receive such a call, hang up and dial the national cybercrime helpline 1930.
    • You can also file a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
    • If money has been transferred, contact your bank without delay to freeze further activity.
  • Seek professional help: When in doubt, consult a lawyer or approach the nearest police station.

Steps to Take If You Become a Victim

If you find yourself trapped in such a scam:

  • Report to your bank immediately so that accounts can be frozen and unauthorised transactions reversed where possible.
  • File a police complaint with detailed information about the incident.
  • Check your credit profile to ensure fraudulent activity has not impacted your credit score.
  • Secure all accounts and devices with updated passwords, 2FA, and antivirus scans.
National Cybercrime Reporting Portal
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Acting quickly reduces the damage and helps initiate investigations.

Conclusion

Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and the Digital Arrest Scam is proof of how fear and manipulation can be used to exploit people’s trust to obtain money. By understanding their tactics used and staying calm in suspicious situations, you can protect both your finances and your peace of mind.

Remember: Law enforcement agencies in India do not conduct interrogations over phone or video calls, nor do they demand money transfers. The moment you encounter such a demand, treat it as a red flag and report it.

Stay alert, stay informed, and let digital innovation make your life easier, not riskier.

Disclaimer:
Articles published on the website are merely indicative and suggestive in nature and do not amount to solicitation. The contents do not guarantee the desired returns and/or results. Reader is advised to exercise discretion and consult independent advisors for achieving desired result.

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