What Is Digital Arrest Threat?

“You are under digital arrest”! If you ever hear these words, do not believe them. With growing digitalisation, cybercrime, called digital arrest, is on the rise. It involves making use of the fear factor to manipulate the victims. Thus, to ensure that such a situation does not turn up with you, understand how the scam works and how to protect yourself.

Fraudsters count on fear—Kotak811 counts on awareness! So, as a part of our #ScamKaSiren fraud awareness campaign, we bring you all the information needed regarding digital arrest scams.

By reading this guide, you can take the proper proactive measures and save your money from being stolen.

Digital Arrest Threat: How Scammers are Using it to Steal Money

Every day, new cases regarding digital arrests are being registered, and victims are losing crores of rupees due to this financial fraud. To avoid it, be a step ahead of the fraudsters and know how the scam works:

Step 1: Receiving Fake Calls or Messages

The victims receive a message or a phone call from an individual impersonating to be from a bank or a telecommunication company. The scammer manipulates the victim using fear, making them believe that there has been suspicious activity linked to their accounts.

Then, they direct the victims to press a number or reply to a message to connect with a so-called ‘representative.’ Once connected, the victims then speak with individuals who pose to be government or law officials. 

Step 2: Impersonating to be Government or Police Officials

Further, to appear credible and elevate the tension, the scammers use the victim’s personal information, like name, bank account number, and even address. They can also make a video call to make the conversation appear more realistic.

The scammers claim that the victim is involved in serious crimes like tax evasion or money laundering. Often, the fraudsters appear in uniforms on video calls and also furnish fake arrest warrants to cement the illusion.

Step 3: Demanding Money On the Spot

Once the victim is sufficiently manipulated, the fraudsters propose to ‘resolve’ the issue. They demand fines or security deposits on the spot to prevent additional legal actions. Usually, the money is requested through prepaid cards or cryptocurrency.

Such modes are almost impossible to trace, and it becomes difficult to retrieve the money. Until the victims make complete payment, the fraudster keeps them on call by using high-tension tactics. Thus, the victim is not able to seek advice from anyone.

What Prime Minister Narendra Modi Has to Say on Digital Arrests:

During an episode of Mann ki Baat on October 27, 2024, the Prime Minister made the following statement about digital arrest scam, warning people to stay alert:

“Beware of digital arrest frauds. There is no system like digital arrest under the law. No government agency will ever contact you via phone or video call for such an investigation,” he said.

Be Proactive: Tips to Prevent the Digital Arrest Scam

If you want to avoid scams like digital arrests, follow the measures below and safeguard your money:

● Never Panic

In a digital arrest scam, the scammers use a sense of urgency to put the victim in tension over phone or video calls or messages. It quickly breaks down the victim's decision-making ability. So, always stay calm and refrain from acting on impulse. 

● Establish the Caller’s Identity

The fraudsters claim to be from a legitimate law enforcement agency. In such a case, disconnect immediately and contact the respective agency through their official website to establish the caller’s authenticity.

● Never Share Personal Information

The government or official agencies never ask for any personal or financial information over calls or text messages. So, never divulge such sensitive information to anyone, mainly unknown callers. 

● Educate Yourself and Others

Awareness is an effective tool to prevent falling prey to scams. So, educate yourself on the tactics used in digital arrest scams and spread the knowledge with your family and friends.

Conclusion

In a digital arrest scam, fraudsters use fear to manipulate the victim. Thus, one must always be aware of such tactics and stay updated with the legal rules and regulations in the country. It helps you take timely, appropriate preventive measures to avoid fraud and discourage scammers.

Scammers thrive on panic. Stay calm, verify, and never transfer money based on threats!

FAQs

Q1) Is there a helpline number for the digital arrest scam?

You can use the cybercrime helpline number 1930 in regards to the digital arrest scam.

Q2) What legal steps can be taken against digital arrest fraudsters?

• File a complaint with the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal
• Seek legal advice for further actions
• Register an FIR

Q3) Can you recover the loss from the digital arrest scam?

It can be difficult but not impossible. You must submit all the call recordings and transaction details to the relevant authorities. Reporting fraud at the earliest helps.

If  you have been scammed online, immediately contact your bank, report the scam to the authorities like the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in/)and document everything related to the scam. 

This Article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this Article do not necessarily constitute the views of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (“Bank”) or its employees. The Bank makes no warranty of any kind with respect to the completeness or accuracy of the material and articles contained in this Article. The information contained in this Article is sourced from empaneled external experts for the benefit of the customers and it does not constitute legal advice from the Bank. The Bank, its directors, employees and the contributors shall not be responsible or liable for any damage or loss resulting from or arising due to reliance on or use of any information contained herein.