Digital Arrest

Digital Arrest: The number of digital arrest scams and related cybercrimes in India almost tripled between 2022 and 2024, with the defrauded amount skyrocketing 21 times.

  • The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has proactively identified and blocked accounts used for digital arrests.
  • About Digital Arrest: A new tactic where cybercriminals impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money from victims by making them believe they’ve committed a serious crime.
  • Modus Operandi: Fraudsters pose as officials from police, ED, CBI, etc., tricking victims into believing they’ve been accused of a crime.

o Victims are forced to stay visible on Skype or video conferencing platforms until demands are met.

o Victims are deceived into believing they’re under ‘digital arrest’, unable to leave their homes unless they pay the scammers.

  • Preventive Measures: Regularly update passwords/software, enable two-factor authenticatio.

o Avoid Phishing: Don’t click on suspicious links or share personal information without verification.

Secure Devices: Install trusted antivirus/anti-malware and keep systems updated.

oUse VPNs: Encrypt internet connections for enhanced privacy. Avoid free/untrusted VPNs.

o Secure Communication: Use encryption for sensitive information; avoid sharing passwords in public forums.