1. What is Digital Arrest Fraud?
Digital arrest fraud is a deceptive scheme where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers, claiming to have the victim “under arrest” through phone or video calls. They often convince the victim to transfer money, promising it will be refunded after verification. Victims may be kept on the call for extended periods, heightening their anxiety and manipulation.

2. Real-Life Example
A senior citizen from Noida received a call from someone posing as a bank employee, who informed him that his Aadhaar card was linked to a significant scam. The scammers told him that the CBI was investigating the matter and placed him under “digital arrest.” They coerced him into transferring ₹1.19 crores in three separate installments to assist with the investigation. The victim began to suspect a scam when the promised money was never returned.

3. How Victims Feel
Victims of digital arrest fraud often experience:
✅ Fear and panic
✅ Pressure to comply
✅ Helplessness, unable to contact the authorities

4. How to Protect Yourself
✅ Remember: Digital arrest has no legal basis; the police do not operate in this manner.
✅ Call: Verify the situation by contacting the police from an official number.
✅ Withhold: Never send money unless you are fully certain of the legitimacy of the request, even if the person claims to be law enforcement.

5. Cyber Laws in Action
Certain legal provisions under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act may be relevant in these cases:

IPC Sections:
✅ Section 308: Extortion
✅ Section 336: Forgery (if fake documents are used)
✅ Section 351: Criminal intimidation

IT Act Sections:
✅ Section 66D: Cheating by personation using computer resources