- The ‘Digital Arrest’ scam is a serious threat, with many people losing money due to scammers impersonating government officials.
- Scammers use fear tactics, such as threats of arrest, to manipulate victims into providing money or personal information.
- Always verify the identity of anyone contacting you about legal matters, especially if they demand money or personal details.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to trusted sources, such as the cybercrime helpline (1930).
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has issued a warning about a growing scam called the ‘Digital Arrest’ scam. This scam is targeting people who use digital payments like UPI. According to Prime Minister Modi in one of the Mann ki Baat episodes said, Indian citizens have already lost ₹120.3 crore to these types of scams. The NPCI urges people to be aware and stay cautious to avoid falling victim to fraud as India moves towards becoming a digital-first country.
India is rapidly moving towards becoming a digital-first economy, but this also means the risks of online fraud are increasing. The NPCI is stressing the importance of vigilance and awareness to protect users from these scams.
What is the ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam?
The ‘Digital Arrest’ scam is a type of online fraud where scammers pretend to be government or law enforcement officials, such as police officers, CBI agents, or tax authorities. They create panic by claiming that the victim or their family members are involved in serious crimes like money laundering, tax evasion, or drug trafficking. These scammers often use fear tactics, threatening arrest or immediate legal action unless the victim transfers money to them.
Common Scam Tactics
| Scam Trick | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Unexpected Contact from ‘Officials’ | Scammers impersonate police, CBI, or other government officials, claiming legal action is imminent. |
| Urgency and Threats of Arrest | Scammers create fear, saying the victim or their family is involved in a crime and threaten arrest if immediate action isn’t taken. |
| Request for Personal Information or Payment | Scammers demand personal information or money, promising to clear the victim’s name or resolve the issue. They may ask for money via bank transfers or UPI. |
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Key Signs of the ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam
NPCI’s advisory outlines several signs that could indicate you’re being targeted by this scam:
- Unexpected Calls from Officials: Be careful if you get a call or message from someone pretending to be a government official, especially if they say urgent legal action is needed.
- Threats and Urgent Demands: Scammers often use fear tactics to manipulate you. They may threaten arrest or other legal consequences, pressuring you to act quickly and respond immediately.
- Requests for Sensitive Information or Money: Scammers may ask for personal details or demand large sums of money, claiming it will “clear your name” or resolve the issue. They might ask you to send money to specific bank accounts or UPI IDs.
- Fake Video Calls and Uniforms: In some cases, scammers may even attempt to create a fake police setup by wearing uniforms or using official-looking logos to make their scam appear legitimate.
How to Stay Safe
NPCI has provided several tips to help you avoid falling victim to this scam:
- Pause and Verify: If you receive an unexpected call or message about a legal issue, stay calm. Verify the caller’s identity by contacting trusted sources, as real law enforcement agencies will never ask for money or conduct investigations over the phone.
- Do Not Share Personal Information or Money: Official authorities will not ask for personal details or money through a phone call. Never share your bank details, UPI IDs, or transfer money to an unknown person.
- Use Official Support Channels: If you suspect that you’ve been targeted by this scam, report the incident immediately. You can reach out to the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or visit the Department of Telecommunication’s official website (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc).
- Stay Calm and Seek Help: Scammers use urgency and fear to make you act quickly. Always take time to verify information and seek help before making any decisions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or an endorsement of any particular product or service. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the details shared, the content is based on publicly available information and reliable sources. Readers are encouraged to verify the details independently and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions. Please exercise caution and stay informed when making any decisions.
