Swindlers Deceive Mangaluru Woman Out of 61 Lakh Rupees: guide to preventing similar scams
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, a concerning trend has emerged: digital arrest scams. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has warned that these scams often target individuals with an established online banking presence, as reported by various news outlets.
According to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), digital arrest scams are on the rise, with a 40% increase reported in 2025. A chilling example of this is a case from Mangaluru, where a 52-year-old woman lost Rs 61 lakh in an online arrest scam.
So, how do these scams work? Scammers often initiate contact via SMS, email, or WhatsApp, claiming that the victim is under investigation for serious offenses. They then impersonate law enforcement or government officials, using video calls with official uniforms and backdrops to appear legitimate. Victims are subjected to psychological pressure, being told that they or their relatives are involved in serious crimes, which creates an atmosphere of fear and urgency.
Under the threat of arrest or legal action, victims are coerced into transferring large sums of money to supposedly resolve the fabricated issues. Payments are often requested in forms such as bank transfers, gift cards, or digital money.
To protect oneself, it's crucial to stay calm and verify the identity of the person claiming to be a law enforcement official. Report suspicious calls or messages to the authorities, and use advanced safety measures beyond just antivirus software. Banks can be more secure by using transfer limits and multi-factor authentication. Limit interaction with scammers to avoid falling further into their trap, and educate yourself about common scam tactics to increase awareness and vigilance.
It's also important to remember that legitimate authorities will never ask for money or secrecy, and never request your bank details. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not send money over the phone. Instead, verify through website searches or in-office visits.
In the event that you suspect a digital arrest scam, reporting the suspicious activity at the Cyber Crime Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) can help freeze transactions. Be particularly cautious when interacting with seniors and teens, as they are often the most vulnerable groups. Authorities advise treating unsolicited requests as potential scams, even if they appear legitimate.
Staying vigilant is the best defense against growing cyber threats. Always remember to Stay Alert, Stay Skeptical, and inform others to help protect your life savings. The money lost in these scams could not be traced back since it had been sent to untraceable accounts, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions.
In conclusion, digital arrest scams are a growing concern, but with the right knowledge and precautions, they can be effectively combated. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your digital life secure.
Technology's rapid advancement has made it possible for criminal activities like digital arrest scams to thrive in the general-news sphere, often posing as official agencies to manipulate individuals. These scams, as reported by various news outlets, have seen a significant increase, with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) reporting a 40% rise in 2025. In the crime-and-justice context, it's essential to understand how these scams operate and take necessary measures to protect oneself.
