In our digital age, a new threat has emerged – the digital arrest scam. In these scams, cybercriminals impersonate authority figures to use fear and intimidation to trick unsuspecting people into giving them money. It’s a disturbing trend that can lead to financial loss and emotional distress for victims.
How it works
Imagine receiving an unexpected audio and subsequent video call from someone claiming to be a government official. They accuse you of various illegal activities that go beyond fraud or drug trafficking, such as identity theft, money laundering, cybercrime, or even involvement in terrorist activities. They use these serious accusations to create fear and confusion, making you feel vulnerable and caught in a web of deception. The mere mention of such serious offenses can send a chill down your spine, leaving you feeling helpless and desperate to comply with their demands to avoid the looming legal consequences.
How to identify and avoid digital arrest scams
These scams aim to surprise and panic people. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself:
1. Stay calm: Remember that real government officials never make video calls and never ask for money over the phone or threaten you with immediate arrest.
2. Verify: If someone claims to be from a government agency, ask for their credentials and verify their identity before disclosing personal information.
3. Don’t give in: Never give money to strangers who contact you unexpectedly, or give them any personal information.
4. Report: If you suspect a scam, report it to local authorities or seek advice from trusted sources.
Security in the digital world
By staying informed and alert, you can protect yourself from falling victim to digital arrest scams. Remember to trust your instincts, verify identities, and never give in to pressure tactics over the phone. With a little caution and awareness, you can protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes and navigate the online world with confidence. If you fall victim to such a scam and have lost money, it is important to act promptly. File a complaint with the local police station or cybercrime.gov.in and contact the Cybercrime Helpline on 1930 for help. Reporting the incident immediately is important so that authorities can track down the scammers and prevent others from falling into the same trap. Remember, seeking help and reporting the crime can help combat these fraudulent schemes and protect others from becoming victims.
Khushbu Jain is a practicing Supreme Court advocate and founding partner of Ark Legal.
