A cyber fraud case involving a so-called digital arrest has surfaced in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly, where a Class 8 student intervened to protect his parents after they were kept on a video call for nearly 10 hours by people posing as officials. The callers allegedly accused the family of serious offences and were preparing to siphon off money when the boy cut contact, preventing any financial loss.
How the Fraud Was Carried Out
The incident was reported from the Prem Nagar area. According to police, cyber fraudsters targeted a local trader, Sanjay Saxena, and his wife by calling from an unknown number and posing as officials from an investigative agency.
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The callers accused Saxena of links to terrorist activities and a multi-crore scam. During the video call, they also displayed what was described as a fake arrest warrant. Police said the couple was threatened and psychologically pressured into compliance, with the fraudsters keeping them continuously on camera under the pretext of a digital arrest.
For nearly 10 hours, the callers imposed strict conditions, asking the couple not to leave their home, to keep the video call active at all times, and to carry out routine activities, including eating and resting, under surveillance. During this prolonged interaction, the fraudsters allegedly extracted sensitive bank details and were preparing to transfer money.
A Child’s Intervention Breaks the Call
As the situation continued late into the night, the couple remained too frightened to challenge the claims being made to them. It was at that stage that their son, Tanmay, a Class 8 student, sensed that something was wrong.
Despite initial resistance from his parents, who were under intense fear, the boy intervened and switched the phone to flight mode, abruptly cutting off communication with the callers. His action halted the scheme at what police described as a critical moment and prevented any money from being lost.
The article said the fraudsters had been attempting to hold the couple in a state of control and fear while moving toward a financial theft. The disruption of the call appears to have broken that chain before the suspected transfer of funds could take place.
Police Register Case and Issue Warning
The following morning, the family went to Prem Nagar police station. When the phone was switched back on, the fraudsters allegedly tried to reconnect, but the call was answered by police officials, who confronted them.
SP City Manush Pareek confirmed that a case had been registered and urged citizens to remain cautious. He advised that any calls claiming digital arrest or involving threats should be reported to the police immediately, and that no financial details should be shared under pressure.
The case adds to a growing pattern of frauds in which callers impersonate officials, use fear as a tool of control and attempt to obtain access to bank details or funds. In this instance, the intervention of a school student prevented what could have become a major financial scam.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
