In a significant move to curb the rising menace of “digital arrest” cyber frauds across the country, the central government has stepped up enforcement with fresh directives targeting misuse of digital platforms. According to sources, the government has instructed WhatsApp to block device IDs linked to such fraudulent activities. The decision follows a report by the Home Ministry’s cyber security wing highlighting a sharp surge in such cases.
Device-Level Blocks Target Repeat Offenders
Officials indicate that cybercriminals are increasingly creating multiple accounts to continue their operations even after being flagged. As a result, merely blocking accounts is no longer seen as sufficient. Authorities are now focusing on device-level restrictions to prevent repeat offences originating from the same hardware.
FCRF Launches Premier CISO Certification Amid Rising Demand for Cybersecurity Leadership
New Safety Features Under Discussion
The government is also in discussions with technology platforms to introduce additional safety features. These may include detection of suspicious video calls, monitoring of fake profiles, and real-time alerts to users. Officials believe that strengthening platform-level safeguards will significantly reduce misuse and improve user protection.
Investigative agencies have further recommended that data of deleted accounts be retained for up to 180 days. This measure is expected to help in gathering crucial digital evidence during ongoing probes and make it easier to trace perpetrators. The proposal is being examined under the framework of IT Rules, 2021.
How Digital Arrest Scams Operate
The “digital arrest” scam has emerged as a dangerous and rapidly growing cybercrime trend in recent months. In such cases, fraudsters impersonate police personnel, central agencies, or government officials and contact victims through video calls. They falsely claim that the victim is involved in serious offences such as money laundering or illegal financial transactions, creating an atmosphere of fear and urgency.
Victims are often kept engaged on long video calls, preventing them from contacting others or verifying the claims. During this time, they are coerced into transferring money to multiple bank accounts under the pretext of “account verification” or part of an “investigation process.” Fraudsters typically assure victims that the money will be refunded after verification, but the funds are siphoned off instead.
Cyber experts point out that such crimes rely heavily on social engineering rather than just technological tools. Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh explains, “Fraudsters create fear and urgency to manipulate victims. There is no legal concept of ‘digital arrest,’ but criminals use fake identities and forged documents to make their claims appear legitimate.”
The government is now working on a multi-layered strategy to tackle these threats. While coordination with tech companies is being strengthened, large-scale public awareness campaigns are also being planned. Special focus is being placed on sensitising senior citizens and businesspersons, who are often primary targets of such scams.
Authorities have reiterated that no legitimate government agency ever asks individuals to transfer money over phone or video calls. Citizens are advised to immediately disconnect such calls and verify any claims through official channels.
In addition, people are urged to report suspicious calls or messages promptly by dialing the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or filing complaints on the official cybercrime portal. Early reporting significantly increases the chances of tracking and freezing fraudulent transactions.
With cybercrime evolving rapidly in the digital age, officials stress that both strict enforcement and public vigilance are essential. The latest measures are expected to act as a strong deterrent against such organised fraud networks.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
