The rapid development of digital technology in recent years has transformed the way people, businesses, and governments operate. While this digital shift has improved efficiency and convenience, it has also created new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit individuals using sophisticated and deceptive methods. One such emerging cyber scam is known as “Digital Arrest.” This fraud relies on fear, misinformation, and the misuse of authority to manipulate victims. Although digital arrest is not a legally recognized procedure, thousands of people fall victim to this scam every year.
This blog explains what digital arrest is, how it works, why scammers use it, who is most at risk, and—most importantly—how you can protect yourself.
If you want to protect yourself from cyber scams and develop digital safety skills, you can consider enrolling in technical courses such as BCA or MCA. Top BCA college in Jaipur, such as Biyani girls college , offer programs in Computer Applications with specializations in Cyber Security.
What Is Digital Arrest?
Digital arrest is a form of cyber fraud in which scammers impersonate government officials, law enforcement agencies, or regulatory authorities. They falsely claim that the victim is under investigation or has been “arrested” for serious crimes.
The victim is threatened with immediate legal action unless they comply with the scammer’s demands, which usually involve transferring money or sharing sensitive personal information.
Unlike real arrests, digital arrests take place entirely over phone calls, video calls, emails, or messaging apps. Victims are often instructed to remain “digitally detained,” meaning they must stay on a call continuously and are warned not to speak to anyone else.
Important to remember:
No legitimate law enforcement agency conducts arrests or investigations via WhatsApp calls, video calls, emails, or phone threats.
How Digital Arrest Scams Operate
Digital arrest scams follow a carefully designed pattern meant to create fear and prevent logical thinking.
1. Initial Contact
The scammer contacts the victim through:
- Phone calls
- WhatsApp video calls
- Emails
- Social media messages
They often use fake caller IDs, official-looking profile photos, and government logos.
2. False Allegations
Victims are accused of involvement in crimes such as:
- Money laundering
- Drug trafficking
- Tax evasion
- Illegal parcel delivery
- Identity theft
The scammer may claim that the victim’s Aadhaar number, PAN card, passport, or mobile number was used for illegal activities.
3. Psychological Pressure
To increase fear and urgency, scammers may:
- Use legal terminology
- Threaten immediate arrest
- Claim bank accounts will be frozen
- Demand confidentiality
Victims are strongly warned not to contact family members, friends, or lawyers.
4. Fake “Digital Custody”
Scammers may conduct fake interrogations through video calls, sometimes wearing police uniforms or sitting in staged environments designed to look like police offices.
5. Demand for Payment or Information
Victims are instructed to:
- Transfer money to so-called “safe accounts”
- Pay verification fees or penalties
- Share OTPs, bank details, or identity documents
Once the payment is made or information is shared, the scammers disappear.
Digital Arrest: A mordern Cyber Scam
Why Digital Arrest Scams Are Effective
These scams succeed because they exploit human psychology rather than technology alone.
- Fear of authority: People tend to obey officials without questioning them.
- Urgency: Victims are rushed and not given time to think.
- Lack of awareness: Many people are unaware that digital arrest is fake.
- Isolation: Victims are discouraged from speaking to anyone.
- Realistic presentation: Fake documents, uniforms, and official language appear convincing.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can be targeted, certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Students and young professionals
- Senior citizens and individuals living alone
- People unfamiliar with legal procedures
However, even educated and tech-savvy individuals have fallen victim due to intense psychological pressure.
Common Warning Signs
- Threats of arrest over phone or video calls
- Requests for personal or banking information
- Poor grammar or foreign accents
- Instructions to transfer money urgently
If you notice even one of these signs, stop engaging immediately.
What to Do If You Receive a Digital Arrest Call
- Stay calm. Panic helps scammers.
- Disconnect the call immediately.
- Do not share any personal or financial information.
- Verify the claim independently through official channels.
- Inform your family or friends.
- Report the incident to cybercrime authorities.
In India, cyber fraud can be reported through:
- National Cyber Crime Portal
- Local police station
- Cybercrime helpline numbers
What If You Have Already Become a Victim?
If you have already transferred money or shared sensitive information:
- Report the incident immediately to cybercrime authorities
- Inform your bank and request account and card blocking
- Change all passwords immediately
- Preserve call recordings, screenshots, and transaction details
- File a police complaint
Quick action can significantly improve the chances of recovering funds and preventing further damage.
How to Prevent Digital Arrest Scams
Prevention starts with awareness. Understanding how these scams work is the strongest defense.
- Educate family members, especially senior citizens
- Never trust arrest threats made over calls or messages
- Always verify before reacting
- Avoid oversharing personal information online
- Enable spam call filtering and fraud alerts
- Follow official government cyber safety advisories
Remember: Real law enforcement follows legal procedures—never digital intimidation.
Blog By:
Ms. Shruti Kumawat
Assistant Professor, Department of I.T.
Biyani Institute Of Science & Management,Jaipur
