COIMBATORE: A 50-year-old doctor in Coimbatore has fallen victim to an elaborate “digital arrest” scam, losing a staggering ₹2.9 crore in a scheme that combined fear tactics with coercive demands for money. The incident, which unfolded on June 27, saw the medical professional manipulated into believing he was under virtual custody by the alleged Mumbai Cybercrime Police.
The elaborate fraud began with a phone call, where the victim was accused of cyber fraud and threatened with immediate arrest unless he complied with the fraudsters’ demands. Exploiting psychological coercion, the criminals instilled fear, pressuring the doctor to transfer a substantial sum and continually demanding more. This insidious “digital arrest” technique traps victims by convincing them they are virtually detained, instructing them to isolate themselves and follow orders under the pretence of avoiding real-world arrest. The doctor was specifically told to remain confined to his home, refrain from communicating with anyone, and face threats of real-time apprehension should he disobey.
Timely Intervention Prevents Further Losses
Fortunately, the ongoing scam was detected by the Tamil Nadu State Cyber Command Centre through a preemptive intelligence operation. Recognising the signs of a large-scale fraud, a specialised cybercrime team was promptly dispatched to the doctor’s residence. Upon arrival, officers faced a challenging two-hour ordeal to convince the doctor that he had been deceived. His deep-seated belief in his “official custody” made him initially resistant to their intervention. The swift action by the cybercrime unit proved crucial, preventing the doctor from incurring further financial losses.
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Investigation Underway and Public Advisory
Following the intervention, a formal complaint has been lodged with the authorities, and an extensive investigation is now underway. Law enforcement agencies are working to trace the culprits behind this sophisticated scam and endeavour to recover the lost funds. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals. Authorities reiterate that no legitimate police officer will ever demand money over the phone to prevent an arrest. The public is strongly advised to report such suspicious calls immediately to the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or through the official portal at www.cybercrime.gov.in. Vigilance and prompt reporting are key in combating these fraudulent activities.