Digital arrest scams in India are one of the fastest-growing cybercrimes today. Imagine receiving a call from someone claiming to be a police officer or CBI agent. They tell you there’s a warrant against your name and insist you must join a video call for a “digital arrest.” Sounds absurd, right? Unfortunately, it’s real—and between January and April 2024, India lost more than ₹120.30 crore to such scams, according to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has even issued public warnings, underlining the seriousness of this threat. To protect yourself, it’s important to understand how digital arrest cybercrime works, why it’s effective, and how you can avoid becoming a victim.

What is Digital Arrest?

A digital arrest is a cyber fraud tactic where victims are tricked into believing they are under virtual police custody. Criminals convince victims to stay on constant video surveillance via Zoom, WhatsApp, or other platforms, while fake legal proceedings take place.

Fraudsters typically impersonate police officers, CBI officials, or even judges, using fake uniforms, backgrounds, and documents to look credible. Victims are pressured into cooperating until they eventually pay so-called bail money, fines, or “security deposits.”

Note: Real law enforcement in India never arrests people over a video call.

How the Digital Arrest Scam Works

1. The Initial Hook

Victims receive a phone or WhatsApp call from someone claiming:

  • Their identity is linked to money laundering or cybercrime
  • A package in their name contained illegal drugs or substances
  • Their bank account is linked to criminal activity
  • They’re under investigation by police, CBI, ED, or customs

The charges are vague but terrifying—creating instant panic.

2. The Video Call Setup

Instead of asking for immediate money, scammers suggest a digital arrest process to “clear your name.” They appear on a WhatsApp or Zoom call in fake police uniforms and backdrops resembling real stations.

  • Some setups are extremely convincing, featuring:
  • Fake documents on desks
  • Background staff acting as officers
  • Official logos and seals

3. The Psychological Prison

Victims are told they must:

  • Remain visible on camera at all times
  • Avoid contacting family, lawyers, or friends
  • Not leave the call or switch off the device

The idea of being under “virtual custody” creates fear, compliance, and isolation.

4. The Money Demand

Once the victim is mentally exhausted, scammers demand payment for:

  • Bail or surety deposits
  • Fines for alleged crimes
  • Administrative/legal fees

Payments are demanded via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or direct transfers—all untraceable.

Why Digital Arrest Scams Are So Effective

The digital arrest scam in India is not just another online fraud—it’s a masterclass in psychological manipulation. What makes it particularly dangerous. Here’s why so many people fall for it:

1. Authority and Fear

Most people in India have deep respect for law enforcement and fear the idea of being involved in a legal case. When a caller claims to be from the police, CBI, or customs, victims instinctively comply without questioning. This fear often overrides logical thinking.

2. Isolation Tactics

Scammers instruct victims not to talk to family, friends, or lawyers. By cutting them off from outside advice, fraudsters create a psychological prison, where the victim feels trapped and alone.

3. Time Pressure and Exhaustion

These scams often last for hours—or even days. Victims are kept on constant video calls, leaving them mentally exhausted. The longer they stay, the more invested they feel, making it harder to walk away.

4. Realistic Technology

Fake police backgrounds, uniforms, documents, and video calls give an illusion of legitimacy. For many victims—especially older adults—the use of technology makes the scam look authentic and intimidating.

5. Emotional Manipulation

The scam is designed to create panic, guilt, and shame. Victims feel they must “cooperate” to clear their name, and by the time money is demanded, they are too scared to resist.

Red Flags to Spot a Digital Arrest Scam

Immediate Red Flags

  • Calls from unknown numbers claiming you’re under investigation
  • Orders to join urgent video calls
  • Instructions not to contact family, friends, or lawyers
  • Requests for payments via crypto, UPI, or gift cards
  • Demands to stay on camera continuously

Legal Process Red Flags

  • Police/CBI never conduct arrests on video calls
  • Real legal notices are delivered physically, with documented proof
  • No genuine officer will ask for immediate money transfers
  • All officers have verifiable ID, badge numbers, and official emails

What to Do If You’re Targeted

During the Call

  • End the call immediately
  • Block the number
  • Do not share details or transfer money

After the Attempt

  • Report the incident on cybercrime.gov.in (India’s Cyber Crime Portal)
  • File a complaint with local police
  • Contact your bank if financial info was shared
  • Warn family and friends

Digital Arrest Scams in India: The Bigger Picture

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cybercrime cases rose from 10,395 in 2020 to 17,470 in 2023. The rise of video-calling technology, lack of awareness about legal processes, and desperation to avoid legal trouble are fueling the growth of scams like digital arrests.

Public awareness is the strongest weapon. Once people understand that digital arrests don’t exist, scammers lose their power.

Conclusion

The digital arrest scam is a chilling example of how cybercriminals exploit fear, authority, and technology to trap victims. The key takeaway: There is no such thing as a digital arrest in legitimate law enforcement.