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PM Modi Alerts Nation About ‘Digital Arrest’ Online Scam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a strong warning to citizens about a rising online fraud scheme known as the ‘digital arrest’ scam. This emerging threat has seen scammers extorting large sums of money from victims, who are tricked into believing they are under arrest by fake law enforcement officials.
Scam Tactics and Modus Operandi
Fraudsters, posing as police or government officials, contact victims via video call, often appearing in studio setups resembling police stations or tax offices. The scammers claim the victim is implicated in illegal activities, such as drug smuggling, and threaten them with arrest unless they cooperate. Modi emphasized that no such concept exists in Indian law and no agency would ask for personal information over a phone or video call.
High-Profile Cases and Rising Incidents
In recent months, there have been several high-profile cases, including the targeting of actor Maala Parvathi. She reported being falsely accused of drug smuggling and placed under “virtual arrest” by scammers impersonating Mumbai Police. While she avoided being defrauded, other victims have lost millions, including one Bengaluru resident who was scammed out of over ₹20 million.
Modi’s Three-Step Guide to Staying Safe
PM Modi advised citizens to stay calm, record suspicious calls, and contact the national cyber helpline if approached by fraudsters. He urged the public to remain vigilant and not panic in such situations.
