What is ‘digital arrest scam’ and how can you protect yourself?
In digital arrest scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to deceive their victims
In digital arrest scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to deceive their victims. Prime Minister Modi has also issued a warning to the public regarding this scam, urging them to report any such incidents to the cyber helpline. Additionally, the Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) has provided a list of methods by which these fraudsters carry out online scams, including the digital arrest scam.
How to avoid becoming a victim of digital arrest scam?
The most important way to protect yourself from getting scammed is to be aware. Always stay vigilant against such crimes. Here are some tips to save you from digital arrest scam:
Be suspicious of calls from fake officials claiming that you are in trouble. It is always important to remember that real law enforcement agency officials will never ask for payment or banking details.
Do not give in to the “pressure tactics” deployed by cyber criminals, who seek quicIf you are suspicious about the call, verify their identity by directly contacting the relevant agency they are referring to. Try to be calm and do not panic.
Avoid sharing personal information and never disclose sensitive personal or financial details over the phone or video calls, especially to unknown numbers.
Remember, government agencies do not use platforms like WhatsApp or Skype for official communication.
action by creating “a sense of urgency”.
If you think you are being scammed, never forget to report the incident to the local police or cyber crime authorities.
CERT-In’s advisory to the public said staying “vigilant and informed” is crucial to protect oneself from this “emerging cyber threat”.
What to do if you are a victim of digital arrest scam and lost money?
If you are a victim of digital arrest scam, the first step is to immediately report your bank and freeze your account.
If you are suspicious about the call, verify their identity by directly contacting the relevant agency they are referring to. Try to be calm and do not panic.
Avoid sharing personal information and never disclose sensitive personal or financial details over the phone or video calls, especially to unknown numbers.
Remember, government agencies do not use platforms like WhatsApp or Skype for official communication.
If you think you are being scammed, never forget to report the incident to the local police or cyber crime authorities.
File a complaint with the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
Always keep whatever evidence you have — call details, transaction details, messages, etc.
Seek help from a lawyer if needed