Digital arrest cases on rise in Sirmaur, police issue advisory

Beware of fraudsters impersonating officials

• Modus operandi: Scammers impersonate law enforcement officers or government officials, accusing victims of serious crimes and demanding money to “resolve” the matter
• Tactics: Claims of illegal items in courier shipments allegations of drug-related offences, financial frauds, and violations under laws like money laundering or the NDPS Act
• Precautions: Verify caller identity, don’t share personal info or banking details, avoid transferring money without confirmation and report suspicious calls to the police or cybercrime unit
• Reporting: National cybercrime helpline (1930) or file complaints on the Cybercrime Reporting Portal
• Consequences: Financial losses, emotional distress, and identity theft

The menace of “digital arrests”, a sophisticated scam targeting unsuspecting victims through fear and intimidation, is gaining ground in Sirmaur district. While the police currently lack official records of such cases, experts reveal that scammers often impersonate law enforcement officers or officials from government agencies to deceive their targets. Victims are falsely accused of being implicated in serious crimes, followed by demands for money to “resolve” the matter.

The concept of a digital arrest revolves around using online channels to convince individuals that they have been apprehended or implicated in legal violations by a government agency. Scammers exploit fear to extract money, often under the guise of fines or penalties.

Reports indicate that fraudsters employ various ploys to trap their victims. Common tactics include claims of illegal items discovered in courier shipments, allegations of drug-related offences, financial frauds tied to suspicious bank transactions, or violations under laws like money laundering or the NDPS Act. Educated and tech-savvy individuals are often the primary targets. Victims are coerced into transferring money digitally or taking loans to pay off the supposed penalties.

The process is intricate. Victims’ sensitive personal data, including PAN and Aadhaar card details, are often illegally acquired. Scammers then siphon off money from their bank accounts or route funds abroad through illegal channels such as cryptocurrency or gaming apps. In some cases, victims are trapped in these fraudulent schemes for days before they realize the deception.

The Sirmaur police have initiated efforts to spread awareness and caution people against falling prey to such scams. SP Raman Kumar Meena said: “Digital arrest cases are increasing rapidly, and people must exercise extreme caution. Scammers exploit the names of government agencies to create panic and manipulate family members of the victims. It is vital to verify any suspicious calls and refrain from making impulsive financial decisions.”

The police emphasise that no legitimate government agency conducts inquiries solely through online channels. Genuine investigations require physical interaction, and official summonses are issued in person.

To tackle the rise in digital arrest cases, the police have issued the following precautions, verify the identity of callers claiming to represent government agencies. Do not share personal information, OTPs or banking details over the phone. Avoid transferring money without confirming the legitimacy of the claim. If suspicious, disconnect the call immediately and report it to the nearest police station or cybercrime unit.

Victims can report incidents via the national cybercrime helpline (1930) or file complaints on the Cybercrime Reporting Portal. The police also encourage sharing personal experiences to help others stay informed and cautious.

While the police are making efforts to address this issue, the primary perpetrators often operate from abroad, leaving only local accomplices vulnerable to legal action. These lower-level operatives face multiple charges under laws related to forgery, money laundering and IT violations. However, apprehending the masterminds remains a significant challenge.

Digital arrest scams underline the importance of public vigilance and awareness. The police urge everyone to stay cautious and promptly report any suspicious activity to safeguard themselves from falling into such traps.