Vadodara, Gujarat – Cybercriminals have devised a new method of fraud known as “Digital Arrest.” A 67-year-old resident of Vadodara, Vivek Sonar, became a victim after being falsely warned that multiple SIM cards were active on his Aadhaar and were allegedly involved in money laundering. Using this pretext, fraudsters impersonated officials from the Mumbai Cyber Crime Department and the CBI, keeping the victim virtually “under arrest” through continuous video calls and coercion. Over several days, they managed to defraud him of ₹64.41 lakh.
The Aadhaar-SIM Pretext
On May 23, Vivek Sonar received a call from an unknown person claiming to be a cybercrime officer:
“Multiple SIM cards are active on your Aadhaar and are being used for money laundering.”
Frightened, the elderly man tried to explain that he was not involved, but the caller warned that failure to comply with an “online investigation” could escalate the matter to the CBI.
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Fake Officers, Letters, and WhatsApp Calls
The victim was then connected via video call to “Vishal Thakur,” claiming to be a Mumbai Cyber Crime Investigation Officer.
Fraudsters asked for a copy of his Aadhaar on WhatsApp and claimed accounts had been opened in states such as Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Punjab in his name.
To instill trust, they sent fake CBI letterheads and documents with forged signatures over WhatsApp, further convincing him of the “investigation.”
‘Digital Arrest’ and Psychological Pressure
Victim Vivek Sonar was told that until the investigation concluded, he could not hang up, leave the house, or speak to anyone else.
Over several days, the fraudsters maintained constant video surveillance, pressuring him to transfer money multiple times under the pretext of investigation fees.
Transfers via RTGS
- May 26: ₹14.98 lakh transferred via RTGS, with receipts sent to the fraudsters on WhatsApp.
- May 28: Another ₹20.65 lakh transferred after fraudsters sent a fake RBI letter.
The scam continued with repeated demands under the pretence of clearing his name, ultimately defrauding him of ₹64.41 lakh.
The ‘Refund’ Ruse
On June 9, when the victim inquired about the investigation, fraudsters claimed a refund process was underway and requested another ₹14.38 lakh. Sensing the deception, the victim disconnected the video call and later filed a complaint.
Complaint and Legal Action
On October 15, Vivek Sonar lodged a complaint at Vadodara Cyber Crime Police Station.
The police registered a case under IPC Sections 318(4), 336(2), 336(3), 338, 340(2), 54, 61(2) and IT Act Section 66(D). Investigation is ongoing, including phone records and bank transaction verification.
Expert Commentary: ‘Digital Arrest Fraud’
Cybersecurity expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh described the scam as:
“This is a dangerous and sophisticated method of fraud. Perpetrators impersonate government agencies such as the CBI or ED to create fear, keeping victims virtually ‘under arrest.’ They use fake documents and constant video surveillance to pressure individuals into transferring funds.”
Prof. Singh added:
“Legitimate agencies never request money or personal financial information via WhatsApp or video calls. Citizens must remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious calls to the national cyber helpline 1930 or local cybercrime units.”
Outcome
The scam drained the victim’s lifetime savings. Experts warn that ‘Digital Arrest Fraud’ is emerging as one of the most dangerous cybercrime tactics, with hundreds already falling prey nationwide.
The new virtual “house arrest” scam highlights the need for awareness and swift action against sophisticated cybercriminals.
