In a disturbing reminder of how technology can be weaponised, two men were arrested for allegedly defrauding a homemaker in Kochi of ₹4.12 crore in a “digital arrest” cyber scam.
The scammers posed as Delhi Police officers, telling the victim that a fraudulent bank account had been opened using her Aadhaar card.
The terrified homemaker was falsely informed that she had been digitally arrested and was instructed to transfer ₹4.12 crore to an account provided by the fraudsters to verify if the funds were obtained fraudulently. This horrifying incident underscores how easily trust can be exploited in the digital age.
Let’s dive into how you can spot, protect, and take action against these deceptive schemes.
Scammers often initiate contact out of the blue, claiming to be from law enforcement or government agencies. If you didn’t expect a call or message, always be cautious.
Scammers will urge you to take immediate action, such as transferring money or providing personal details, claiming it’s a time-sensitive matter.
If you’re asked to transfer money or provide your bank details for “verification,” it’s a major red flag. Legitimate authorities never ask for payments like this.
Fraudsters often make exaggerated claims of serious consequences, such as arrest or financial penalties, to instil fear and force compliance.
If you realise that you’re being scammed, hang up the call or block the number. Do not engage further with the scammers.
Contact your local law enforcement or cybercrime authorities to report the scam. They can help investigate the fraud and prevent it from happening to others.
If you’ve shared any financial details or made a payment, immediately contact your bank to freeze your account and prevent further transactions.
Inform those close to you about the scam so they can be aware and avoid falling into the same trap.
Always double-check the identity of anyone who contacts you. Call the official contact numbers of the institution they claim to represent (such as the police station or government agency) to verify their authenticity.
Never share sensitive information, such as your bank account or social security number, over the phone or online without confirming the legitimacy of the request.
Strengthen your digital security to prevent unauthorised access to your financial accounts. Ensure that your accounts are protected by strong passwords and MFA wherever possible.
If you receive suspicious communication, discuss it with a family member, friend, or financial advisor to get a second opinion before taking any action.
Digital arrest scams are a growing threat in today’s tech-driven world, preying on unsuspecting victims. By staying vigilant, recognising red flags, and taking prompt action, you can safeguard yourself from falling prey to these deceptive tactics. Stay informed, share your knowledge with others, and take proactive steps to protect your finances. Your awareness could be the key to avoiding such fraud.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.
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