1) Introduction
Welcome to today’s legal rights awareness blog. In an age where we rely heavily on
digital platforms for communication and work, new threats are emerging. One of the
growing risks is digital arrest scams, where cybercriminals exploit online interactions to
deceive and defraud individuals. It’s important to note from the outset that there is no
legal concept known as “digital arrest.”
In this post, we’ll delve into how these fraudulent schemes operate, their impact on
victims, and the crucial steps you can take to protect your rights and stay safe in the
digital world. By understanding the tactics used by these scammers, you can better
safeguard yourself against this emerging threat.
2) What is “Digital Arrest”?
Digital arrest is a cybercrime where offenders deceive victims into believing they are
under arrest for a cyber or related offense. Impersonating law enforcement, the scammer
pressures the victim into staying on a video call, using threats and manipulation to
demand money or personal information. This results in potential identity theft, financial
loss, or stolen data for malicious use.
3) What is the motive of offenders in “digital arrest”?
To pressure victims, by demanding fake legal penalties or money transfers to avoid
arrest, directing payments to fake “government accounts.”
To commit identity theft, by collecting sensitive data like bank details and Aadhaar
numbers.
To exploit stolen data, by selling it on the dark web for future fraud or illegal use.
To manipulate victims, by using fake identities or deepfakes to gain trust and gather
more personal information.
To expand scams, by recruiting victims into larger networks for future exploitation.
4) How does digital arrest manifest in real-life situations? (An Example)
S.P. Oswal case involves a story of a businessman who was tricked by fraudsters posing
as authorities. They claimed his account was linked to financial irregularities involving
Naresh Goyal, the former Jet Airways chairman. Oswal was convinced to transfer
$833,000 after being shown fake arrest warrants and Supreme Court documents. After
reporting the incident, he was able to recover $630,000 with the help of cybercrime
officials.
5) What are the challenges and circumstances that make victims fall prey to digital
arrest?
Circumstances
Fraudsters Initiate Contact: Victims are contacted by scammers posing as law
enforcement, creating immediate fear.
Fake Arrest Warrants: they use forged documents, like arrest warrants, to pressure
victims into compliance.
Isolation Tactics: Victims are isolated by cutting off communication with others,
preventing verification.
Lack of Awareness: Many victims fall prey to scams due to unfamiliarity, especially
when scammers use techniques like deepfakes or simulated video calls.
Fear of Legal Consequences: Victims, fearing arrest or punishment, comply without
questioning the authenticity of the claims.
Challenges
Emotional Distress: Victims experience anxiety and fear from arrest threats, leading
to the transfer of money or sharing sensitive information.
Convincing Tactics: Fraudsters use deepfakes, fake documents, and impersonation,
making it hard to verify the scam’s legitimacy.
Financial Losses: Victims suffer untraceable financial losses with little chance of
recovery.
Delayed Reporting: Fear of embarrassment or reputational damage delays reporting
the scam.
Anonymous Perpetrators: Scammers use fake identities or operate internationally,
making it difficult for authorities to trace them.
6) What Does a Victim Usually Do, and What Should They Do During and After a
Digital Arrest Scam?
Victims of digital arrest scams panic, believing they are under investigation for serious
crimes. Scammers create urgency, pressuring them to transfer money or provide sensitive
information like bank details or Aadhaar numbers. Fearing arrest or reputational damage,
victims may isolate themselves and struggle to verify the situation due to the scam’s
convincing tactics. By the time they realize it’s a fraud, the damage is done, and
embarrassment often delays reporting.
During the Scam:
Verify the Caller’s Identity: Confirm the identity of anyone claiming to be from law
enforcement by directly contacting the local police or relevant agency.
Avoid Sharing Personal Info: Do not share personal or financial information over the
phone, especially under pressure.
Resist Pressure: Scammers often create urgency. Do not make immediate financial
transactions or provide sensitive details.
Do Not Entertain Long Calls: If in doubt, end the call. Do not stay on the line for
extended periods.
After the Scam:
Report to Authorities: Immediately report the incident to local police or the
cybercrime division.
Consult a Legal Adviser: Seek legal advice to understand your rights and explore
options for recovering losses.
Notify Financial Institutions: Inform your bank or credit card company to block
or monitor any unauthorized transactions.
Raise Awareness: Inform friends, family, and colleagues about the scam to prevent
others from falling victim.
Use CERT-In Resources: Report the scam via the National Cyber Crime Reporting
Portal or call the toll-free helpline (1930). Follow CERT-In advisories and alerts for
updates on cyber threats and digital arrest scams.
Conclusion
Digital arrest scams are a rising threat, but staying vigilant, verifying claims, and following
guidelines from authorities like CERT-In can help prevent them. Raising awareness and
strengthening digital security are key to protection.
Written by Devyani Kapse, Legal Intern at TruLex