Digital arrest scam: Digital arrest has become a new way in the world of cyber crime. It is now becoming a big headache for banks as well. Recently, many bank customers across the country have complained about losing huge amounts. Now the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has sent notice to banks regarding ‘lack of service’ in this case. This information is given in a report by Indian Express.
What is a digital arrest scam?
Digital arrest scam is a kind of cyber fraud. In this, fraudsters scare people by calling themselves an official of the government or investigative agency. They make false accusations by connecting the victim to drugs, money laundering or any illegal transaction. Then keep the victim in ‘custody’ on video calls for hours or sometimes for days and ask for bank details or money.
What happened so far?
On 3 March and 7 July, NCDRC has accepted the petitions of some victims for hearing. The commission said that if the complaints were found to be ‘hearingable’, it could seek help from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
In a case in Mumbai, there is a fraud of about ₹ 5.88 crore from the victim. Mahindra Limaye, a lawyer of the victims, said that the commission has sent notice to all banks (even banks receiving money). Now there will be a detailed investigation into the violation of RBI guidelines and ‘lack of service’ in these cases, which is the first time for the banking sector.
How is a digital arrest scam?
1. Start with call or message: You get a call, WhatsApp message or video call. The person in front describes himself as police, CBI, government official or RBI officer. Many times fake IDs or edited videos are shown.
2. Strategy to intimidate: The fraudsters who become a police officer try to scare you. Some special methods for this are adopted. As if a parcel has been caught with your Aadhaar or PAN, a case has been registered in your name or your son and daughter have been caught doing some criminal work.
3. Digital arrest: Then you are asked to stay on video calls continuously. It is said that you are now ‘digital arrest’. You are not allowed to talk to anyone. It is threatened that if you do not cooperate, it will be arrested.
4. Recovery Start: Cyber criminals start charging money after intimidating. She asks for a hefty amount to settle the case or remove your name. These money is usually called through UPI, Crypto or gift cards.
5. Emotional Trap: An atmosphere of fear, shame and nervousness is created. In some cases, people remain ‘digital arrest’ on calls for 24–48 hours continuously and transfer the amount of lakhs.
Digital arrest scam is now not just a cyber fraud, but also raising questions on the credibility of the banking system. After the NCDRC action, the whole matter will now be investigated deeply. This is also expected to provide relief to innocent customers, who lose millions of rupees by getting stuck in such fake scams.