Digital arrest scam is rising and here is how you can save yourself from this threat

The digital arrest scam is a rising threat in India, with scammers using fear tactics to exploit victims. Here is how to identify and protect yourself from these sophisticated online frauds.

In Short

• According to NCR Police 600 cases of Digtial Arrest were reported within 3 months
• The victims reportedly receive a call from fake FedEx worker
• The scammers inform victims about illegal parcels confiscated in their name

Online scams are becoming a digital epidemic in India. In the past few years, hundreds of cases have been reported of people falling victim to online scams and losing their money. What is more concerning is the complex web these cybercriminals are spinning to trick people and steal money from them. The scams aren't just about luring people in anymore; now, the scammers are even threatening their targets, emotionally draining them to the point where victims, out of fear, end up sending money. One such online scam where people are being threatened is the "digital arrest scam."

In the case of the digital arrest scam, the victim first receives a call from an unknown number, with the caller pretending to represent a popular delivery service. Then, within a few months, the caller connects the victim to a supposed police officer, accusing them of involvement in an international smuggling case. While you may think such calls are easy to identify or dismiss, people who have received such calls report that they seem very legitimate because the scammers share personal information.

The caller often shares personal details, such as bank passbook information, causing the victim to fall for the scam. Recently, Richa, a prominent journalist from AajTak, came forward to share her terrifying experience of being trapped in one of these digital arrest scams. She revealed that the scammers had access to her personal information, likely obtained through breaches of sensitive data, such as her Aadhaar details.

According to the National Capital Region (NCR) police, a staggering 600 cases were reported within a mere three-month period, each involving losses exceeding Rs 20 lakh.

How the digital arrest scam works

The scam typically begins with a call from someone claiming to represent a courier company, like FedEx or DHL. The caller informs the victim that a suspicious package has been linked to their name or address, often containing contraband, illegal substances, or documents related to criminal activity. The caller further explains that the parcel, which was en route to Taiwan, has been confiscated. The call is quickly escalated to a supposed police officer, who warns of imminent arrest unless the victim cooperates.

The scammer then coerces the victim into sharing sensitive information, such as Aadhaar numbers, bank details, or even access to social media and email accounts, under the pretence of "verifying" their innocence. In some cases, the scam extends to video calls where the impersonator, posing as a law enforcement officer, demands further compliance. According to Richa's account, she was asked to isolate herself in a room away from other family members and friends and even show her room on video call in a 360-degree view. She was also instructed to stay silent, being told that the case involved national security. Many victims, like Richa, have reported that these scammers kept them in a constant state of anxiety, using relentless threats of arrest or legal action if they failed to comply.

This psychological manipulation is what makes the scam so effective. Scammers create a sense of urgency and terror, making the victim more likely to comply without verifying the call's authenticity.

Protecting yourself from digital arrest scams

• While the rise in these scams is alarming, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:
• Never trust calls from unknown numbers claiming to be from a courier company or law enforcement. If you receive such a call, hang up and contact the company directly through their official channels. You can find their customer service numbers on their official websites.
• Be cautious about sharing sensitive information, such as Aadhaar numbers, bank details, or passwords, over the phone. Genuine authorities or companies will never ask for such details. If someone shares your personal details with you on a call, do not panic.
• Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and consider enrolling in services that alert you if your data has been compromised. Always enable two-factor authentication for your sensitive digital information.
• Remember, real law enforcement agencies do not issue threats of arrest over the phone. If you receive such a call, it is almost certainly a scam. Block the number and report it to the authorities.
• Remember that no legitimate organisation will threaten you with arrest over the phone.