Cyber criminals in Rajasthan have adopted a new and sophisticated fraud method in which victims are threatened with a so-called “digital arrest” through fake calls posing as government officials.
Investigations by the Rajasthan Police cybercrime unit have revealed that fraudsters are using international IVR (Interactive Voice Response) calls to trick people into believing they are speaking with officials from agencies such as the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), police departments, or courier companies.
Officials say the scam relies heavily on fear and psychological pressure, often convincing victims that they are involved in a serious criminal case.
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Automated calls used to initiate fraud
According to investigators, the scam typically begins with an automated call from a foreign number.
When the recipient answers, a recorded voice claims that their mobile number or a parcel sent in their name has been linked to illegal activities. The message then offers the option to connect with a supposed “officer,” which leads to the next stage of the fraud.
Once connected, the fraudsters impersonate officials from agencies such as TRAI, the Department of Telecommunications, police departments or courier companies, making the call appear legitimate.
‘Digital arrest’ used to intimidate victims
During the call, victims are warned that they could face arrest or criminal charges.
The fraudsters claim that the person is under investigation and may be placed under “digital arrest,” a fabricated concept used to scare victims into compliance.
In many cases, victims are told they must remain under online supervision until the investigation is completed and are warned not to share the matter with anyone.
Under this pressure, victims are often persuaded to share bank details, OTPs or transfer money to accounts provided by the scammers.
Use of satellite and foreign networks
Police say cybercriminals are using satellite and international telecom networks to hide their identities and locations.
Investigators have identified calls coming from numbers with country codes linked to multiple countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, South Korea, Iran, Cambodia, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Australia.
These numbers make it difficult for authorities to trace the origin of the calls.
TRAI and telecom authorities issue warning
Telecom authorities have clarified that TRAI or the Department of Telecommunications never conduct personal investigations through phone calls or ask for Aadhaar, banking details or payments.
Officials say any call threatening a digital arrest or demanding money to avoid legal action is fraudulent.
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Police advise caution
Rajasthan Police have urged the public to remain cautious when receiving calls from unknown international numbers and to avoid sharing personal or banking information with strangers.
Victims of cyber fraud are advised to immediately report the incident through the National Cyber Crime Portal or the helpline number 1930, which is dedicated to reporting financial cybercrime cases.
Authorities say public awareness remains the most effective defence against such cyber scams.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
