A case involving the prevention of cyber fraud has come to light, in which an 81-year-old father demonstrated remarkable presence of mind. By exercising sound judgment, he narrowly saved his own son and daughter-in-law from falling victim to a “digital arrest” scam. This incident took place in Pune.
The son, a chemical engineer by profession, received a call from an unknown number the day prior. Consequently, he and his wife narrowly escaped losing a sum of Rs 12 lakh. The victim has since filed a formal complaint regarding the incident.
How the scam began
In his police complaint, the victim stated that he received a call around 11:00 AM on April 19. The call was received via the WhatsApp messaging platform. The caller claimed to be an officer from the Mumbai Police Crime Branch—though, in reality, he was a cyber fraudster.
Reference to a “fake parcel”
The cyber fraudster informed the victim that a parcel addressed to him had been intercepted and seized by the authorities. The caller alleged that the parcel contained five passports and narcotics; the victim immediately denied ownership of the parcel, asserting that it did not belong to him.
Subsequently, grave allegations were levelled against the victim, and he was informed that he would have to face a “high-level inquiry” conducted by a senior officer.
Pressure to install the Signal messaging app
The cyber criminals then pressured the victim and his wife to install the Signal messaging app. Following this, they instructed the couple to join a video call.
Fake police officer appears on video call
During the video call, a man dressed in a police uniform appeared on the screen. He identified himself as the investigating officer. The couple was once again confronted with serious accusations and was strictly advised not to disclose details of the matter to anyone else. Both individuals were effectively placed under “digital arrest” within the confines of their own home.
Interrogation continued late into the night
The harassment continued late into the night, with the couple being subjected to various accusations and intimidation tactics. Eventually, the fraudsters demanded that the victim provide his Aadhaar card details and banking information.
Subsequently, the victim was informed that if he transferred 12 lakh, his name would be removed from the case.
Father intervenes just in time
During the “digital arrest,” the son appeared visibly distressed. Noticing this, his father questioned him, leading to the exposure of the digital arrest scam. The victim immediately informed the police about the entire incident and filed a formal complaint.
How to protect yourself from ‘digital arrest’ scams
- Do Not Panic; Disconnect the Call: If anyone threatens you with arrest or imprisonment, immediately disconnect the call.
- Do Not Send Money to Strangers: If, following a “digital arrest” scenario, the caller asks you to transfer money—whether to have your name cleared of serious charges, to close a case, or under the pretext of an investigation—exercise extreme caution.
- Do Not Share Personal Details: If someone calls claiming to be a police officer, customs official, or similar authority, and subsequently requests your personal information, be on alert; never share your bank details, Aadhaar details, or any other personal data with anyone.
- If someone calls claiming to represent the police, CBI, or other agencies while levelling serious allegations against you, remember this crucial fact: the police never conduct arrests via digital means. In such instances, disconnect the call immediately and personally visit your nearest police station to report the matter.
