Mastermind Behind ‘Digital House Arrest’ Scam Apprehended by Uttarakhand STF

The Special Task Force (STF) Cyber Crime Police of Uttarakhand, led by DySP Ankush Mishra, has uncovered a massive scam known as “Digital House Arrest,” which has been duping victims across India. The scam came to light when a Dehradun resident received a call claiming to be from the Mumbai Crime Branch regarding a suspicious parcel sent from Mumbai to Taiwan, that was intercepted. The parcel allegedly contained prohibited items such as narcotics and counterfeit documents. The victim was accused of involvement in money laundering and drug trafficking and was coerced through video calls (Skype) into believing they were under investigation. The scammers exploited this fear, demanding hefty sums under the guise of “verification” and “legal clearance.” Over multiple transactions, the victim was extorted for Rs 1.7 crore before realizing the fraud.

Victims were threatened with arrests and hefty legal consequences unless they cooperated. Under the guise of “legal verification,” the scammers coerced victims into transferring money into designated accounts. In some cases, victims were asked to isolate themselves under the pretext of “investigation,” hence the term “Digital House Arrest.”

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Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Navneet Singh revealed that the complainant, a Dehradun resident, fell victim to this scam after receiving a parcel linked to fake allegations of money laundering and drug trafficking. The victim was threatened with arrest and coerced into transferring Rs 1.7 crore over multiple transactions. It was only after realizing the fraud that the victim approached the Cyber Crime Police Station in Dehradun.

After extensive investigations, the STF identified a key accused, Manni Kumar, from Yamunanagar, Haryana. Using advanced digital tools and analysis of banking and telecom data, the team tracked and apprehended the suspect. Items seized during the arrest included mobile phones, debit/credit cards, Aadhaar cards, and other documents used for fraudulent activities.

The STF has urged the public to be vigilant against such scams. Cybercriminals often use fake identities and legal threats to manipulate victims. The public is advised to:

1. Avoid responding to calls or messages claiming to be from law enforcement demanding money or information.
2. Verify the authenticity of any legal notices or demands with local authorities.
3. Report any suspicious activity to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or visit www.cybercrime.gov.in for assistance.

SSP Navneet Singh cautioned citizens against falling prey to schemes offering double returns on investments or fraudulent travel bookings. He emphasized the importance of verifying any unsolicited financial or legal claims.

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