How to protect yourself from Digital Arrest and stay safe

Digital Arrest is one of the most alarming cyber security threats in India, where fraudsters pose themselves as CBI, police, or other officials via calls/video calls to falsely accuse victims of serious crimes.

This Cyber Jaagrookta Diwas, Bank of India is spreading awareness on “Digital Arrest” Scam. “Digital Arrest” is a major and one of the most alarming cyber security threats in India, where fraudsters pose themselves as CBI, police, or other officials via calls/video calls to falsely accuse victims (senior citizens) of serious crimes like money laundering, threatening arrest, and demanding money (as “bail/fine”) through UPI/RTGS to avoid it, using fake documents, videos, and deepfakes to appear legitimate, creating immense fear and isolation.

MODUS OPERANDI:

IVR Calling & Impersonation: Scammers call potential victims posing themselves as members/representatives of various Government agencies e.g. Mumbai Police, Delhi Police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Narcotics Department, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Telecom Department or Enforcement Directorate. These numbers are often spoofed.
Intimidation & Isolation: The scammers then allege potential victim of involvement in illegal activities, such as sending or receiving contraband items like drugs or fake passports or SIM cards through FedEx or DHL, use of their Aadhaar card and registered mobile number in illegal activities, illegal money deposited into account from a drug dealer, involvement in Money Laundering, terrorist activities, etc. Claims may also involve a loved one supposedly caught in criminal activities or accidents.
Digital Confinement: Some victims are subjected to ‘digital arrest,’ where they are forced to stay on video calls often over Skype and WhatsApp with the scammers until their demands are met. These scammers create a fake setup of police station to make the victim believe that they are actual law enforcement officers.
Demand for Money: Criminals extort money in exchange for agreeing not to expose the false legal cases that have been constructed or to settle the issue.
Fake Accusations: They falsely claim you’re involved in major crimes (drug trafficking, money laundering) and have a digital arrest warrant.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

Scammers posing as law enforcement personnel often use threats of “digital arrest” to pressure victims. Real law enforcement won’t arrest you digitally.
There is no concept of Digital Arrest under any Indian Laws.
Never share personal or financial information over the phone, email, or messaging apps without verifying the request.
Always verify the identity of the caller or sender before taking any action, contact nearest police station directly to verify the claim / identity.
Speak to your relatives and friends before taking any action to transfer money.
Regularly update yourself on the latest cybercrime and prevention tips, follow @cyberdost on social media.