Cybercriminals in Bihar Employ ‘Digital Arrest’ Tactic to Defraud Victims of Lakhs

By Neeraj Kumar

Patna: Cybercriminals are constantly developing new strategies to target unsuspecting individuals. Recently, a fresh case of cyber fraud involving “digital arrest” has surfaced in Bihar, as these incidents continue to rise. In the latest instance, a gang of cyber criminals impersonated a senior Mumbai Police officer to digitally intimidate an IIT student from Patna, ultimately defrauding him of approximately Rs 9 lakh.

With online business steadily increasing, cybercriminals have also managed to scam five other individuals engaged in online ventures, siphoning off a total of Rs 18.51 lakh. Cyber police have registered complaints from the victims and are actively investigating the cases.

According to reports, an IIT student from Patna fell victim to the scam on October 7. He received a call from someone claiming to be a senior officer with the Mumbai Police, who alleged that suspicious, illegal transactions had been made in an HDFC Bank account opened in the student’s name. The caller demanded that he prove his innocence, threatening arrest by the Mumbai Crime Branch if he failed to comply. Fearful, the student transferred Rs 8.9 lakh to the fraudster’s account, as instructed. It was only later that he realised he had been scammed and promptly lodged a complaint with the cyber police.

Meanwhile, the police are actively pursuing leads in the investigation. Cybercriminals have been increasingly inventive, sometimes tricking parents with threats to arrest their children, or coaxing people into transferring funds. In such scenarios, it is essential for the public to remain cautious and vigilant.

This emerging “digital arrest” tactic often involves video calls, where the cybercriminal intimidates or deceives the victim into remaining in front of the camera for extended periods, sometimes even days. During this time, the fraudster gathers personal information, which they use to drain the victim’s bank account.

Cybercriminals are now using “Digital Arrest” ploys to deceive people by posing as government officials. It’s crucial to remain sceptical of such calls, and if contacted, report the incident immediately to the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre or the local police station. Complaints can also be lodged via the helpline number 1930.

 

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