The rise of online scams has introduced a frightening new trick called digital arrest scams. Cybercriminals use this tactic to target victims by impersonating law enforcement officials and convincing them they face legal trouble.
But don’t worry, these arrests are fake. Let’s break down how these scams work and how to protect yourself.
What is a Digital Arrest?
A digital arrest is a new type of online scam. Scammers impersonate law enforcement officers. Their goal? To extort money from unsuspecting victims. These scammers contact people through platforms like WhatsApp or Skype, claiming the victim is involved in illegal activities.
The victim is then forced into staying on a video call while being threatened with a fake “digital arrest.” This is designed to intimidate people and trick them into paying money or giving sensitive information.
Unlike traditional scams, which may involve simple phone calls or phishing emails, digital arrest scams use advanced technology. This includes video conferencing and deepfake videos to make the scam appear more legitimate.
Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs’ cyber security awareness arm, Cyber Dost, issued a public warning. They stressed that law enforcement agencies, including the CBI, police, customs, ED, and judges, do not conduct arrests through video calls.
These scams usually occur on platforms like WhatsApp and Skype, where scammers make fake video calls and use fear tactics to extort money. Let’s explore how these scams work and what you can do to avoid becoming a victim.
How Does the Digital Arrest Scam Work?
A digital arrest scam starts with a call or message from someone pretending to be a law enforcement officer. They claim the victim is involved in illegal activities, like money laundering or tax evasion. The scammer then demands an immediate video call to “resolve” the issue.
Here’s how the scam unfolds:
- Initial Contact: The victim receives a message or call on platforms like WhatsApp or Skype. The scammer claims to be from a government agency, like the CBI or ED and says the victim is under investigation for a serious crime.
- Threat of Arrest: The scammer uses fear to control the victim, telling them that they could face an immediate arrest or serious legal action. To make the threat seem real, the scammer insists on a video call to discuss the matter.
- Fake Video Call: During the video call, the scammer may show forged identification cards, fake court documents, or even use deepfake video technology to impersonate real law enforcement officials. This adds legitimacy to their claims and makes the victim believe the situation is genuine.
- Demands for Money: The scammer demands that the victim pay a fine or penalty to avoid the fake arrest. They often insist on immediate payment via bank transfer or cryptocurrency to prevent further legal trouble.
- Continuous Contact: Scammers keep the victim on the video call for long periods to maintain control. They pressure the victim into making quick decisions without having time to think or verify the claims.
Why are these scams so effective?
Digital arrest scams are highly effective because they prey on fear and confusion. Most people panic when they hear they might be arrested, and scammers use this emotional reaction to their advantage.
By creating a sense of urgency, they can manipulate victims into taking quick actions—like sending money or sharing personal information—before they have time to think clearly.
Additionally, scammers use video conferencing to add a layer of credibility. In most scams, communication happens over phone calls or emails, but using video calls makes the interaction feel more legitimate.
The scammer appears to be a real person, which lowers the victim’s guard. Some scammers even use deepfake technology to impersonate real government officials or judges, making the situation seem even more believable.
No such thing as a digital arrest
It’s important to know that digital arrests do not exist. An arrest is a formal process, which requires law enforcement officers to be physically present. There is no legal provision for arrests to happen over a video call.
Law enforcement agencies, such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and police, do not make arrests through video conferencing apps like Skype or WhatsApp.
Even top-level officials, like judges, cannot order arrests through these platforms. Any call claiming otherwise is a scam.
Recent cases of digital arrest scams
Case 1: Senior Official Swindled Out of ₹55 Lakh
In a recent case, a senior official from the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) lost ₹55 lakh in a digital arrest scam. The scammers posed as government officials, claiming the victim was involved in illegal activities.
To avoid a fake arrest video call, the official transferred a large sum of money. After an investigation, three people were arrested in connection with the scam.
Case 2: SP Oswal’s ₹7 Crore Scam
In another high-profile case, SP Oswal, the Chairman and Managing Director of Vardhman Group, lost ₹7 crore in a digital arrest scam. The scammers pretended to be senior government officials, including the Chief Justice of India.
They even created a virtual courtroom and used forged documents to make the scam seem real. Oswal was kept under a “digital arrest” for two days, fearing immediate legal action.
Also read | OTP Scams Rising in India: Protect Yourself from Financial Fraud
How to protect yourself from digital arrest scams
Never share your personal or financial details over video calls or messages
1. Don’t Panic:
Scammers use fear to rush you into action. Always take time to pause and analyze the situation, even if it feels urgent.
2. Verify the Caller’s Identity
Never trust a video call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement official. Ask for their credentials, then contact the agency directly to verify. You can call the police station or the official agency to check your identity.
3. Avoid Sharing Personal Information
Never share your personal or financial details over video calls or messages. Legitimate officials will not ask for sensitive information over platforms like WhatsApp or Skype.
4. Be Aware of Video Technology
Scammers use AI and deepfake technology to create fake videos. Be cautious of anyone who pressures you to stay on a video call. No legal process involves staying connected with law enforcement over a video chat.
5. Report Suspicious Calls
If you receive a suspicious call or message, report it to the police or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Reporting helps authorities track and prevent these scams.
Law enforcement doesn’t operate through video calls
According to Prof Triveni Singh, Retd. IPS officer and Chief Mentor at the Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF), there is no legal procedure that allows for a digital arrest.
Arrests are formal legal processes that require the physical presence of law enforcement officers and must follow strict legal protocols.
Prof Singh also highlights the importance of staying vigilant. “Scammers are using fake digital arrest warrants or threats of legal action to create fear.
This fear leads people to give up sensitive personal information or make payments to avoid fake arrests,” he said.
Also read | What is Digital Forensics in Cybersecurity?
What to do If you’ve been targeted by a digital arrest scam
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a digital arrest scam, here’s what you should do:
- Cut Off Communication
End the video call immediately and stop responding to the scammer’s messages or calls. Do not make any payments or share any personal information. - Report the Scam
File a complaint with your local law enforcement agency or report the scam online through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Provide as much information as possible, including details of the video call and any demands made by the scammer. - Protect Your Information
If you’ve already shared personal information, contact your bank or credit card company to secure your accounts. You may also want to change your online passwords and monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity.
A digital arrest scam is a dangerous form of online fraud that uses fear and fake legal threats to extort money from victims. Scammers pretend to be law enforcement officials, using video calls and fake documents to add legitimacy to their claims.
Remember, real law enforcement agencies will never conduct arrests through video calls. If someone threatens you with a digital arrest, it’s a scam. Always report suspicious calls to the authorities and spread awareness to help others avoid falling victim to this growing threat
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