Maharashtra News: In a harrowing incident that underscores the alarming rise of cybercrime in India, a 72-year-old retired professor from Mumbai fell victim to a sophisticated digital arrest scam, losing an astonishing ₹1.88 crore. This scam, which has been sweeping across the nation, involves perpetrators impersonating high-ranking officials, including judges from the Supreme Court and agents from central law enforcement agencies, to manipulate and extort money from unsuspecting victims.On November 15, the ordeal began when a woman, masquerading as an official from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), contacted the elderly professor from Vashi. She falsely claimed that his Aadhaar card was linked to a SIM card used for sending obscene messages. The scammers escalated their tactics by sending counterfeit arrest warrants and conducting dubious court hearings via video calls, effectively placing him under digital arrest.The Mechanics of the Scam: How Victims Are TrappedThe digital arrest scam operates on a foundation of fear and confusion. Victims are often contacted through phone calls or messages that claim they are under investigation for serious crimes such as money laundering or drug trafficking. Once engaged, scammers use threats of immediate arrest to isolate their targets, compelling them to join video calls where they are informed of their supposed legal troubles.As described by experts in cyber law, this form of fraud is particularly insidious because it preys on individuals fears and vulnerabilities. Digital arrests do not exist under Indian law, clarified Yashasvi Yadav, Special Inspector General of Police for Maharashtras Cyber Department. He emphasized that even educated individuals fall prey to these sophisticated scams due to their elaborate nature and the psychological manipulation involved.An Epidemic of Digital Arrests: The Scale of Financial LossesThe scale of financial loss due to digital arrest scams is staggering. Reports indicate that over ₹1.2 billion was lost to such scams in India between January and April 2024 alone, with many cases likely going unreported due to victim embarrassment or lack of awareness. The funds stolen are often funneled into international accounts or cryptocurrency wallets, complicating recovery efforts.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly addressed the issue, urging citizens to remain vigilant against such scams. If you receive such a call, dont panic, he stated during an October radio address. Be assured that no investigative agency conducts inquiries in this manner through phone or video calls.Staying Safe in the Digital AgeAs digital fraud continues to evolve, it is crucial for individuals to educate themselves about these scams and adopt preventive measures. Awareness is key knowing that digital arrests are a fabrication can empower potential victims to resist coercion and report incidents promptly. With cases like that of the retired professor serving as cautionary tales, it is imperative for society to unite against these malicious schemes that threaten financial security and personal safety in an increasingly digital world.
