Beware of Digital Arrest Scams: Stay Informed and Protected
Digital scams are evolving rapidly, with fraudsters finding new ways to trick people into parting with their money. These scams often involve criminals impersonating law enforcement or regulatory officials to create fear and urgency. Here are some common types of scams and how to protect yourself:
1. Digital Arrest Scams
Fraudsters pose as police, CBI, or other officials and accuse victims of crimes. Victims receive threatening video or audio calls with fake interrogations and demands for money to avoid "digital arrest."
- Reality: Police do not conduct digital arrests or online interrogations.
- What to Do: Disconnect the call and report it to the Cyber Crime helpline at 1930.
2. Parcel Stuck at Customs
Victims are told their name is linked to a parcel containing illegal items, intercepted by Customs. Fraudsters demand payment to resolve the issue or release the shipment. Clicking on links they send can give scammers access to your device.
- What to Do: Avoid clicking on suspicious links. Report such calls to 1930.
3. TRAI Phone Scam
Scammers claim the victim`s phone number is involved in illegal activities and threaten to suspend services unless money is paid.
- Reality: TRAI does not suspend mobile services; only telecom providers can.
- What to Do: Ignore these threats and verify with your telecom provider.
4. Easy Money Scams
Fraudsters promise high payouts for simple tasks like liking social media posts. Victims are tricked into transferring large sums of money or investing in fake schemes, such as cryptocurrency, only to lose their funds.
- What to Do: Be wary of offers promising easy money. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Family Member Arrested
Scammers pretend to be police and claim a close relative has been arrested on serious charges. They demand money to drop the charges, sometimes using AI to mimic the family member’s voice.
- What to Do: Verify with your family members before taking any action.
6. Money Transferred by Mistake
Fraudsters send fake messages claiming money has been credited to your account by mistake. They then call to request its return, even though no money was actually transferred.
- What to Do: Always verify transactions directly with your bank.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
If you encounter any suspicious calls or messages, report them to the Cyber Crime helpline at 1930. Remember, legitimate authorities will never demand money over the phone or online. Stay informed to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams.
