NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for strong vigilance against scams like digital arrest; now reported rampant across the country.
PM Modi was speaking on the 115th episode of Mann Ki Baat.:
“There is no such thing as a digital arrest. No investigative agency can make digital arrests in India. Don't panic if you get such calls. Do not share any personal information. The information should be reported to the National Cyber Helpline immediately.
The fraudster may appear in police uniform in Skype calls. In one case, they appeared as CBI officials. They will threaten you to reveal the private information. In panic, most of the victims acquiesce to the demand. The fraudster will then deceive the victims by showing templates of forwarding the case to court. Everything might seem genuine but in reality, it is a big sham.
In sheer cluelessness and shock, some will offer money to get away from the case. The fraudster will thus extort money and flee. Many cases of 'digital arrest' scams are getting reported across the country.
At such stages, it is vital that you not lose your cool. Take a screenshot of the video call or if possible record it. Then call the National Cyber Helpline number 1930 and inform. Send the complaint by email along with proof to cybercrime.gov.in. The National Cyber Coordination Center is best prepared to tackle such fraudsters. They will work in tandem with state government and police officials. Many people have lost lakhs of hard-earned money. Don’t be afraid in such circumstances.”