Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh — A retired railway officer has fallen victim to one of the country’s most alarming cybercrime tactics: the so-called “digital arrest.” Under psychological pressure and fear of fabricated charges, the officer was duped into transferring a staggering ₹35 lakh across multiple accounts.
The Modus Operandi
According to police, the victim received a phone call from a fraudster impersonating a central agency officer. The caller alleged the officer’s involvement in money laundering and drug trafficking. The threat escalated when the victim was forced into a video call, where fraudsters staged a fake “digital arrest” scenario. Convinced of imminent legal trouble, the victim complied with demands and transferred the money, only realizing the deception after consulting family and local police.
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Police & Expert Warnings
The local cyber cell has since issued a warning, emphasizing that no legitimate agency investigates cases over phone calls or demands money transfers. Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh explained: “Digital arrest is one of the most dangerous tricks. Criminals exploit fear, pushing victims into believing immediate payment is the only escape from legal consequences. Awareness and calm judgment are crucial in such situations.”
Prevention and Public Safety
Experts advise recording suspicious calls, contacting the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or reporting at cybercrime.gov.in immediately. Citizens should never share banking details or OTPs over the phone, and must consult family or legal advisors before transferring funds.
Broader Concerns
The case highlights a disturbing trend: senior citizens and retired officials are increasingly being targeted due to their savings and trust in authority. Experts urge law enforcement and banks to strengthen awareness campaigns, especially for vulnerable groups.
As technology advances, so do scams. This incident serves as a reminder that vigilance, skepticism, and timely reporting remain the strongest defenses against evolving cyber threats.