"Digital arrest" does not exist in Indian law. No police officer, CBI, ED, customs or TRAI official will arrest you, investigate you or ask for money over a phone or video call. Government agencies have repeatedly issued public warnings about this scam.
How the scam works
- You get a call or WhatsApp message saying your Aadhaar, SIM or a parcel in your name is linked to a crime (drugs, money laundering, illegal content).
- The call is "transferred" to a so-called police or CBI officer, often on a video call with a uniform and an official-looking background.
- You are told you are under "digital arrest" and must stay on the call, not speak to anyone, and not leave the room.
- You are pressured to move your savings to a "safe account" or an "RBI account" for "verification", and promised the money will be returned.
Warning signs
- Threats of arrest, or an instruction to keep the matter secret from family
- A demand to stay on a video call for hours
- Any request to transfer money, share OTPs, or install a screen-sharing app
- Fake notices or warrants sent as images on WhatsApp
What to do
- Hang up. You are free to do so. Real agencies send written notices and never demand payment by phone.
- Do not transfer money or share OTPs, PINs or card details.
- Tell a family member straight away. Isolation is the scammer's main tool.
- Call 1930 and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
- If you already sent money, call 1930 and your bank immediately and keep all evidence (numbers, screenshots, transaction IDs).
Fraudsters rely on panic. Calm action is your best defence.
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