A 76-year-old retired medical officer from Nagpur has allegedly been defrauded of ₹2 crore after cyber fraudsters targeted him in a sophisticated “digital arrest” scam, falsely claiming that his bank account was linked to terrorist activities. The case has once again highlighted the growing threat of cybercriminals using fake legal intimidation tactics to extort money from senior citizens.
Fraudsters Allegedly Posed as Senior Officials
According to the complaint, the fraudsters impersonated officials from multiple agencies and contacted the victim through threatening messages sent between March 23 and April 3. They allegedly claimed the victim was under investigation and that his bank accounts were connected to unlawful activities.
To make the claims appear legitimate, the accused reportedly sent forged documents bearing official-looking seals through WhatsApp and pressured the retired officer into complying with their instructions.
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Victim Allegedly Forced to Transfer Funds Online
Investigators said the fraudsters instructed the victim to transfer money online from his bank accounts under the pretext of verification and investigation. Acting under fear and pressure, the elderly medical officer allegedly transferred approximately ₹2 crore to accounts shared by the accused.
The scam came to light after the victim approached the Cyber Police Station and lodged a formal complaint regarding the fraudulent transactions.
FIR Registered Under BNS and IT Act
Following the complaint, police registered an FIR and invoked multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Sections 318(4), 319(2), 336(2), 340(1), 204, and 61(2), along with Section 66 of the Information Technology Act. Authorities have confirmed that no arrests have been made in the matter so far.
Rise in Digital Arrest Frauds Raises Concern
Cyber experts have urged the public, particularly elderly citizens, to remain cautious of calls or messages involving claims of “digital arrest,” fake warrants, or urgent legal threats. Experts have reiterated that legitimate authorities do not demand money transfers over phone or messaging platforms as part of investigations.
