Digital arrest scams are deceptive schemes where fraudsters impersonate law  enforcement officials or government representatives to extort money from victims.  

• Initial Contact:

  • Victims receive a call, email, or text from someone posing as a law enforcement official or government agency representative, such as the CBI, RBI, or local police.

• Accusation of Criminal Activity:

  • The caller accuses the victim of involvement in crimes, such as sending or receiving contraband items (like drugs or fake passports) or having their identity stolen for illegal purposes.

• Involvement of Loved Ones:

  • Scammers may escalate the situation by claiming that a loved one is in trouble due to criminal activities or accidents, further heightening the victim's fear and concern.

• Demand for Money:

  • The fraudsters demand immediate payment to resolve the alleged case, pressuring victims to transfer money using untraceable methods.

• Digital Arrest Tactics:

  • Some victims are subjected to 'digital arrest,' where they are forced to remain on video calls with scammers until their demands are met, creating a sense of captivity and urgency.

• Remote Access Requests:

  • Scammers may instruct victims to download remote access applications, allowing them to control the victim's computer and access sensitive information.

• Isolation Techniques:

  • The scammers may keep victims on the phone or video call for hours, preventing them from reaching out for help or verifying the claims, effectively isolating them.

 Recognizing these tactics can help individuals protect themselves from falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.