Context:
- PM Modi in his recent Mann ki Baat Speech mentioned about the menace of Digital Arrest.
- PM Modi warned the nation against this new type of Cyber-crime.
- PM Modi also presented data concerning the overall monetary loss to Indian due to digital arrest (120 crore in the first quarter of 2024).
Modus Operandi:
- The modus operandi of a digital arrest sees fraudsters claiming to be officers of an investigative government agency or law enforcement like CBI, Narcotics, RBI, TRAI, customs and tax officials.
- Intended targets are approached using audio & video calls.
- Through these calls, victims are first intimidated and then money is extorted from them.
- In a Digital Arrest, Victims are tricked into remaining under constant visual surveillance via skype or other video conferencing calls
How Fraudsters Trick Victims and Evade Police:
- While Video calling victims, studios are modelled on police stations and government offices.
- Fraudsters wear uniforms to appear genuine and many times deliberately play police siren in the background and send fake IDs to make Digital Arrest seem real.
- Also used deepfake videos and fake arrest warrant and other such documents to impersonate officials of law enforcement agencies.
- In many instances, a victim is tricked by fake officers through different means.
- A Victim is told that a close relative or friend is involved in a crime and is now in a custody.
For example, they could claim that a victim’s child has been caught with drugs.
- To resolve the made-up case, the criminals threaten and intimidate the victim to transfer money to them. Amounts could vary from a few lakhs to crores.
What to do if someone contacts you and threatens you with arrest?
- The only protection is awareness. Always stay alert and be suspicious of any audio or video calls from fake law enforcement or government officials.
- Stop all further communication and disconnect from the internet immediately.
- Report the incident to local police or cyber crime authorities by calling 1930 (24/7 helpline number).
- Also take precaution: contact your bank and block your accounts temporarily if necessary.
- Keep evidence of call recordings, messages and screenshots.
How do you avoid getting trapped?
- As PM Modi in his Mann ki Baat Speech mentioned that no investigative agency inquires like this through a phone or video call.
- The three steps to Digital security are :
- Stop
- Think
- Take Action
- Never trust unsolicited calls claiming to be form law enforcement agencies.
- Verify caller’s identify by contacting the agency directly through official numbers.
- Do not share personal details like ID, bank, or passport information over video calls.
- Install a reliable cybersecurity app to alert you of potential scams. For example, Bit defender or wire shark.
What can you do if you have been Scammed?
- Immediately report the transaction to your bank and request a reversal or freeze.
- File a formal complaint with the National Cyber-Crime Reporting portal (Cybercrime.gov.in)
- Seek help from a lawyer to assist in legal matter and protect your identity.
- Gather all evidence for the authorities, including call logs, messages, and transaction details.
- Give any evidence of the scam to the authorities and seek legal aid if necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, PM Modi’s recent Mann ki Baat speech highlights the growing threat of digital arrest, a sophisticated cyber-crime where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money from unsuspecting victims. The alarming monetary loss of 120 crore in the first quarter of 2024 underscores the urgency of addressing this menace. Awareness and vigilance are key to protecting oneself from such scams. By following the recommended precautions and reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities, individuals can safeguard themselves against digital arrest and other cyber threats.
