Cyber fraudsters loot around ₹10 crore from retired engineer in ‘digital arrest’ scam

A retired engineer has reportedly been defrauded of around ₹10 crore in a “digital arrest” scam, with the victim filing a complaint with the cybercrime police on Tuesday. Officers have initiated an investigation into the incident.

How the scam unfolded

According to the complaint, the perpetrators allegedly impersonated police officials and contacted the victim over the phone. They claimed his mobile number had been used to commit various crimes and warned that he could be arrested at any time.

Using these threats, the fraudsters allegedly placed the victim under a form of “digital arrest” for a few days—effectively isolating and intimidating him—and coerced him into transferring funds to accounts they controlled. In total, the victim is said to have transferred about ₹10 crore over this period.

What is a ‘digital arrest’ scam?

A digital arrest scam is a type of cybercrime in which criminals pose as law enforcement or government officials and convince victims that they are under virtual arrest or investigation. By leveraging fear and urgency, the scammers pressure individuals to comply with instructions—often including transferring money—to avoid supposed legal consequences.

Police investigation

The cybercrime police have taken up the case and are investigating the complaint. Further details about the suspects and the movement of the transferred funds were not immediately available.

Significance

The case highlights how impersonation and intimidation remain central tactics in high-value cyber frauds, underscoring the need for vigilance when receiving unsolicited calls claiming to be from law enforcement or government agencies.