Pimpri-Chinchwad (Pune) |November 10, 2025 |Staff Correspondent: A shocking case of cyber fraud has surfaced in Pune’s Pimpri-Chinchwad area, where a 71-year-old retired man was duped of ₹22 lakh by scammers posing as officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and a local court. The fraudsters, communicating through WhatsApp video calls, threatened the victim with a “digital arrest” unless he transferred money to “settle” the alleged case.
According to police, the incident occurred between July 23 and September 29, 2025. The victim received a WhatsApp video call from a person who introduced himself as an officer from the Cyber Crime Department. The caller accused him of being involved in child pornography and money laundering, claiming his mobile number had been used for illegal activities.
Soon after, another man joined the call, posing as a court official, and told the victim that a warrant had been issued against him. He warned that the victim would face an immediate “digital arrest” if he did not cooperate. Terrified, the retired man was told that the only way to avoid “custody” was to transfer a large amount as a “security deposit.”
Under fear and confusion, the victim transferred ₹15.5 lakh and ₹7 lakh into two separate bank accounts as instructed by the fraudsters. Once the money was sent, the callers disconnected and never reached out again. Realizing he had been duped, the victim later approached the Sangvi Police Station, where a formal complaint was registered.
Police Investigation Underway
The Sangvi Police have begun an investigation into the case. Preliminary findings suggest the fraudsters used international virtual phone numbers to mask their real location. Authorities believe this scam is part of a larger, organized cyber network operating across states — and possibly from abroad.
Rise of ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams Across India
Police and cybersecurity officials warn that so-called “Digital Arrest” scams are rapidly increasing across India. In these cases, scammers impersonate officers from the CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED), or police, accusing victims of being involved in financial crimes, drug trafficking, or other serious offenses. Victims are then threatened with “digital custody” unless they transfer money immediately.
Often, scammers use fake video call backgrounds resembling official offices or police stations to make the interaction appear authentic. They also play recorded voices, display fake identity cards, or share fabricated “court orders” to trap victims psychologically.
Senior Citizens — the Easy Targets
According to investigators, senior citizens and retired professionals are the most vulnerable targets. They tend to trust authority figures and often panic at the mention of legal trouble. Fraudsters exploit this fear, warning victims not to discuss the matter with anyone under the pretext of “confidential investigation.”
A senior Pune police official said,
“These criminals are experts in psychological manipulation. They create fear, isolate the victim, and force immediate compliance. It’s a new form of digital extortion.”
Police Advisory for Citizens
Authorities have issued a strong advisory urging the public to remain cautious. Citizens are advised not to trust unknown calls or video calls, even if the caller claims to be a government or law enforcement officer.
Never share OTP, banking credentials, PAN, Aadhaar details, or passwords over the phone. If you receive such a suspicious call, disconnect immediately and verify the claim directly with your local police or official helplines.
Victims of cybercrime should promptly contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or file a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in. Timely reporting, officials say, can help authorities block fraudulent transactions and trace stolen funds.
Experts Warn: “Awareness Is the Only Defense”
Cybersecurity experts emphasize that no legitimate government agency conducts arrests or collects fines through WhatsApp or phone calls.
“Fear is their weapon; awareness is your protection,” said a senior cybercrime specialist. “Digital fraudsters have become smarter, but vigilance and verification can save you.”
The Pune incident serves as yet another reminder of the growing sophistication of online financial scams. As “Digital Arrest” frauds spread across India, authorities are urging citizens to verify before believing, pause before paying, and report before regretting.
