Unlike physical arrests, a “digital arrest” occurs when scammers trap victims psychologically. The caller pretends to be a police officer, ED official, or cybercrime inspector, showing forged identity cards over a video call. The victim is accused of a fake crime, such as money laundering or illegal parcel shipments. Under fear and confusion, victims are forced to stay online for hours while the fraudster extracts money or personal details. In reality, there is no such thing as a digital arrest under Indian law.

• Scammers use fake police uniforms and logos displayed on background screens during video calls.
• They threaten legal action, claiming the victim’s number or Aadhaar is linked to illegal activities.
• Fraudsters demand money transfers to “settle” the case or verify documents.
• They manipulate fear to keep the victim from disconnecting the call or informing family.
• In some cases, criminals record the call to blackmail victims later.

• ⚠️ The caller introduces himself as a senior police or enforcement officer using a random number.
• 💡 You are told your documents or parcel are linked to criminal cases.
• ✅ The caller insists on staying online throughout and prevents you from disconnecting.
• 📉 You are asked to transfer funds immediately to avoid arrest.
• 🎯 Threats of FIR, media exposure, or legal detention within minutes.

Do’s

• Stay calm and do not engage in long calls with unknown officials.
• Verify any such claim by calling your nearest police station directly.
• Record the caller ID and conversation if possible for reporting.
• Report immediately on cybercrime dot gov dot in or dial 1930 to alert authorities.

Don’ts

• Do not panic or send money under pressure.
• Never share personal information, Aadhaar, or bank account numbers during the call.
• Do not click on links or share OTPs sent “for verification.”
• Do not allow screen sharing or remote access under any circumstance.

The scam succeeds because of fear psychology. Scammers create an illusion of urgency — saying “your arrest warrant has been issued” or “your account is frozen.” They show forged documents to make the threat believable. Victims often comply out of fear, thinking non-cooperation may worsen their situation. It’s vital to remember that no genuine officer will ever conduct interrogation over a video call or demand digital payments.

• Report at cybercrime dot gov dot in or call 1930 immediately.
• Inform your local police station and submit screenshots or call recordings.
• If you made a payment, notify your bank instantly to freeze the transaction.
• Raise awareness in social media circles to warn others against such scams.

• 💡 Keep your phone number and social media private; avoid oversharing identity details.
• ✅ Educate family members, especially elders, about fake “government” calls.
• 📉 Never make any payment to unknown accounts claiming to be police or government officials.
• 🎯 Remember: no government agency demands payments over video calls.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) have issued multiple warnings about digital arrest scams. Law enforcement bodies have arrested several groups running such rackets across India. Awareness campaigns through “CyberDost” and RBI alerts educate citizens that police never ask for digital payments or conduct arrests online. Staying informed is your best defense.

Digital arrest scams thrive on fear. Always remember: genuine government officials never demand money or conduct interrogations through video calls. If contacted by anyone claiming authority, verify locally before reacting. Knowledge and composure are the strongest safeguards against cyber extortion. Stay informed through verified insights at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.