Digital arrest scams are an emerging form of cybercrime where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers to extort money. These scams exploit fear, urgency, and trust in authority to manipulate unsuspecting individuals.
The scheme often begins with a phone call. The caller claims to be from agencies such as the CBI, income tax department, or customs. Victims are told they face serious charges like tax evasion or drug trafficking.
To increase credibility, scammers move the interaction to video calls via WhatsApp or Skype. They use fake display pictures of police officers, judges, or lawyers—often stolen from social media—to simulate authenticity.
Once on video, victims are shown fabricated “warrants” or told that their arrest is imminent. This creates panic, forcing them to act quickly without seeking advice. The psychological pressure is a key part of the trap.
The fraudsters then present a way out: transfer money to a designated account as a “security deposit” or to “clear their name.” Victims, desperate to avoid legal trouble, comply.
Payments are routed through multiple bank accounts or UPI IDs, making tracking difficult. Once money is transferred, scammers cut contact and vanish.
These scams reveal a dangerous blend of technology misuse and psychological manipulation. Awareness and quick verification remain the strongest defenses.
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