73-Year-Old Woman Loses ₹1.43 Crore to Fake Police Officer in Digital Arrest Scam – Know How to Stay Safe

Cyber fraudsters are now using a new trick called the “Digital Arrest Scam”, where they impersonate police or CBI officials and threaten victims through video calls. Under the guise of investigation, they extort huge sums of money by scaring people into believing that they are involved in a criminal case. A recent case from Karnataka has once again highlighted the alarming rise of this scam.

Shocking Case of Fraud Worth ₹1.43 Crore

A 73-year-old woman from Karnataka became the latest victim of this digital trap. According to reports, the fraudsters called her pretending to be Karnataka Police officials and claimed that her Aadhaar card had been used in criminal activities, including child trafficking and murder. They told her that an FIR had been registered in her name.

To make their act more convincing, the conmen appeared on a video call wearing fake police uniforms and staged an interrogation. They told her she could get her name cleared from the case if she cooperated. Fearing legal trouble, the woman transferred ₹1.43 crore to the account provided by the scammers. Later, she realized she had been duped.

What Is a Digital Arrest Scam?

In a digital arrest scam, criminals contact people through calls, messages, or video calls, claiming to be from law enforcement or central agencies like the CBI, NIA, or local police. They allege that the victim’s identity has been used in illegal transactions, drug trafficking, or money laundering.

The fraudsters then tell the victim they are “under digital arrest” — meaning they must remain on a video call and under virtual observation until the supposed investigation is over. This psychological manipulation makes victims panic, during which the fraudsters extract money, personal details, or both.

How the Fraudsters Operate

Scammers typically start with a believable story — for example, a suspicious parcel in the victim’s name or a financial transaction under investigation. They use fake government IDs, forged email addresses, and caller ID spoofing to make the communication appear genuine.

Once they gain the victim’s trust, they use fear tactics, claiming that immediate payment or verification is needed to avoid arrest. Victims are often told to keep their video camera on continuously, which further strengthens the illusion of being monitored.

In many cases, scammers also send links or install malicious software on the victim’s device, allowing them to access sensitive information or drain funds through multiple small transactions.

Tips to Stay Safe from Digital Arrest Scams

• No government agency conducts arrests or interrogations via video calls.

• Never share personal or banking details such as OTPs, account numbers, or Aadhaar information with unknown callers.

• Beware of calls or emails that create panic or pressure you to act immediately.

• Verify the caller’s identity by directly contacting the concerned agency or your nearest police station.

• Do not click on suspicious links or download apps sent by strangers.

What to Do If You’re Scammed

If you become a victim of such fraud, act immediately:

File a complaint at the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal — www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Call the National Cyber Helpline Number 1930 for quick assistance.

Inform your bank immediately to freeze or trace the transaction.

Keep all evidence — call recordings, messages, screenshots, and transaction details — safely stored.

Digital arrest scams are a reminder that fear and urgency are the two biggest tools used by cybercriminals. Staying alert, verifying every claim, and acting cautiously are the best ways to protect yourself from becoming the next target.