19
Jul
Cyber Sanskar
Digital Arrest Scam : A Case Study
Understanding the Digital Arrest Scam
The "Digital Arrest Scam" is a sophisticated cybercrime where scammers pose as law enforcement officials or government representatives and frighten victims into transferring money by threatening them with false legal charges. Here's a detailed look into how the scam unfolds and essential safety tips to protect yourself.
The Scam Unfolds
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Initial Contact:
- The victim, often a professional, receives a call from someone claiming to be a representative of a regulatory body like the Indian Telecommunication Regulatory Authority.
- The caller alleges that a mobile SIM card linked to the victim's Aadhaar card is involved in illegal activities.
- The victim, often a professional, receives a call from someone claiming to be a representative of a regulatory body like the Indian Telecommunication Regulatory Authority.
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Escalation:
- The scammer transfers the call to another "official," usually claiming to be a police officer.
- The victim is shown fake documents via video call, which increases their fear and confusion.
- The scammer transfers the call to another "official," usually claiming to be a police officer.
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Digital Arrest:
- The victim is coerced into staying on a video call for several hours, during which they are not allowed to leave the camera's view.
- The scammer demands a significant amount of money, threatening arrest and legal consequences if the victim does not comply.
- The victim is coerced into staying on a video call for several hours, during which they are not allowed to leave the camera's view.
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Financial Loss:
- Frightened, the victim transfers the demanded money, often breaking fixed deposits or other savings.
- In some cases, even after realizing the scam, victims may be asked for additional funds.
