Introduction
A few years ago, most people believed that cybercrime meant only password hacking or ATM fraud. But today, criminals are using psychological pressure, fake police identities, and high-level technology to trap innocent citizens. One such dangerous trick spreading rapidly across India is the “Digital Arrest” scam.
Recently, I received a call from a young student who almost paid ₹80,000 after she was “digitally arrested” through a fake video call. She was threatened that her Aadhaar card was found at a crime scene and that she must cooperate with a “digital investigation.” In fear, she almost gave away her entire savings.
This incident inspired me to write this blog to help others stay safe from this new online trap.
What Is a Digital Arrest?
A digital arrest is a cyber frauds in which scammers pretend to be police officers, CBI agents, or cybercrime officials using fake calls, emails, or video conferences. They claim that:
* Your Aadhaar card or bank account is linked to illegal activities
* You are part of a money laundering or drug trafficking case
* You are being “digitally arrested” and cannot disconnect the call
* You must keep your camera ON until they complete the investigation
Victims are forced to share bank details, identity proofs, OTPs — and sometimes even transfer money as “security deposit”.
Why Do People Fall for It?
The scam works because it uses three strong psychological tools:
| Technique Used | Purpose |
| --------------------- | -------------------------- |
| Fear of police & law | To silence the victim |
| Time pressure | No time to think logically |
| Fake digital evidence | To create panic and trust |
Fraudsters often download government logos, uniforms & background images and create fake conference rooms using AI or Zoom filters. It looks very real—which is why many people fall for it.
📞 How the Digital Arrest Scam Happens (Step-by-Step)
1. The First Call
You receive a call from an unknown number claiming to be “Cyber Police Department”.
2. Fake Evidence
They show a forged document saying your Aadhaar/PAN/bank account is linked to a crime.
3. Threat
They warn you that you will be arrested within hours unless you cooperate.
4. Forced Video Call
You are told not to disconnect and to keep your camera on.
5. Demand for Money
They say you must pay a “verification fee” or “security deposit” to prove innocence.
6. Continuous Surveillance
They may ask for access to your phone via AnyDesk or TeamViewer apps.
7. Victim Is Isolated
You are told not to talk to family or anyone about it.
This is not a real arrest — it's psychological blackmail.
Signs That It’s a Digital Arrest Scam
✔ The caller asks you to stay on video call continuously
✔ They threaten immediate arrest
✔ They demand money online
✔ They ask for OTPs or bank details
✔ They use phrases like “digital custody” or “investigation room”
✔ They tell you not to inform anyone
Remember:
👉 Indian Police NEVER arrest anyone through video calls.
👉 No official investigation happens through WhatsApp.
👉 No “security deposit” is ever taken by law enforcement.
How to Protect Yourself
1. Stay Calm — They are NOT real police.
2. Immediately disconnect the call – they are scammers.
3. Do NOT share personal documents over phone/email.
4. Never download apps suggested by unknown callers.
5. File a complaint:
* 📞 1930 – Cyber Helpline (24/7)
* Local police station
📌 Important Legal Points
| Indian Law | Purpose |
| ------------------ | ----------------------------- |
| IPC Section 420 | Cheating & fraud |
| IPC Section 507 | Criminal intimidation |
| IT Act Section 66D | Impersonation using computers |
| IT Act Section 66C | Identity theft |
| IT Act Section 43 | Unauthorized access to data |
📢 Real Case Study
In Pune, a 32-year-old man was kept on a 3-hour WhatsApp video call by fake “CBI officers”. They showed a forged FIR claiming his Aadhaar was used to open a bank account involved in drug dealing. He paid ₹2.5 lakh out of fear. Fortunately, timely action by his bank helped recover part of the money.
✋ If You Are Already a Victim – Do These 5 Things Quickly
1. Call 1930 immediately and report the fraud
2. Email all evidence to [helpdesk@cybercrime.gov.in
3. Inform your bank and block transactions
4. Change all passwords (email, bank, UPI, social media)
5. File FIR at your local police station
💡 Final Message – Awareness Is Your Best Shield
The idea of “digital arrest” is designed to attack your mind before your money.
The only way to defeat it is by awareness and calm thinking.
> The police will never arrest you through a video call.
> Law is not a threat; it is protection for the innocent.
If this blog helped you — please share it with your family, friends and students. You might save someone from losing their money and peace of mind.
🔗 For Any Urgent Help:
📞 Cyber Helpline: 1930
🌐 Report Online: cybercrime.gov.in
👮 Visit Nearest Police Station
