Digital Arrest / Fake Police Scam
Scammers impersonate police or CBI claiming you're under investigation
How this scam works
One of the most terrifying scams: fraudsters call or message claiming to be from CBI, police, customs, or income tax. They claim your Aadhaar has been used for crimes, or money laundering was detected. They demand money to "clear your name" or threaten immediate arrest.
"Digital arrest" is NOT a real legal concept. No law enforcement agency operates this way. These scammers use fear, official-sounding language, and sometimes even video calls with people in fake uniforms to intimidate victims.
Warning signs
- ⚠️Claims of "digital arrest" (not a real legal concept)
- ⚠️Demands for immediate payment to avoid arrest
- ⚠️Asks you to stay on video call while making payment
- ⚠️Threats about Aadhaar misuse or money laundering
- ⚠️Official-sounding designations and case numbers
- ⚠️Pressure to not tell anyone or disconnect the call
Real examples
“This is CBI Cyber Crime Unit. Your Aadhaar has been used for money laundering. Case #CBI/2024/7834. You must pay Rs.50,000 security deposit or face arrest within 2 hours.”
CBI does not contact people via WhatsApp. "Digital arrest" is not real. No legitimate agency demands payment.
“This is Mumbai Police Cyber Cell. A parcel with drugs registered to your Aadhaar was seized at customs. Transfer Rs.1,00,000 to freeze case or FIR will be filed.”
Police never demand money to "freeze" cases. This is pure extortion using fear.
What to do
- ✓Remember: "Digital arrest" is NOT a real thing
- ✓No government agency will ask for money over phone/WhatsApp
- ✓Hang up immediately — do not engage
- ✓Report to cybercrime.gov.in
- ✓Call 1930 (national cybercrime helpline)
- ✓Talk to family or friends — scammers isolate victims
Related patterns
Fake KYC Update Scam
Fraudsters pose as banks demanding urgent KYC verification
“Your SBI account will be blocked. Update KYC immediately”
Electricity Disconnection Threat
Fake messages threatening power disconnection unless you pay immediately
“Your electricity will be disconnected tonight. Pay Rs.1500 now”