The ‘Digital Arrest’ scam is growing by leaps and bounds. It is said that as more people are making digital payments through UPI, the incidence of online fraud has also increased. Users are losing millions by paying online. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has also warned people about this growing scam.
Prime Minister Modi mentioned in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ that Indians have lost Rs 120.3 crore in such scams. In such a situation, NPCI urges everyone to be alert and aware. So that India does not fall prey to more digital fraudsters.
NPCI said in its statement, the entire country now transacts digitally. These transactions are certainly safe and convenient, but they must be done carefully to avoid fraud You can protect yourself and your loved ones if you identify the scam ahead of time.
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What is ‘Digital Arrest’?
The ‘digital arrest’ scam is an online tactic where criminals pretend to be law enforcement or government officials. They intimidate people by telling them that they may be under investigation or arrested. Scammers aim to extort personal information or money by creating a sense of fear.
How to identify Digital Arrest Scam?
1. Unexpected contact with legal officers: Be alert if you receive a sudden call or message from someone claiming to be a police officer, CBI agent, tax official or customs agent. They may accuse you or your family of serious crimes such as money laundering, tax evasion or drug trafficking.
2. Scary scare tactics: Scammers often use video calls, where they wear police uniforms, use government logos, or have police station sounds in the background. They threaten you with arrest or legal trouble if you don’t respond immediately.
3. Requests for information or money: They may ask for personal details or demand money. They may demand details or money to save your name or settle the case. You may then be asked to transfer money to their bank account or UPI ID as ‘investigation fee’. Scammers may use phrases like ‘will refund’ or ‘help with investigation’ to convince you.
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How to avoid scams
Needless to say, you can avoid falling prey to these scams by keeping the above caution points in mind. Here are some more tips on how to stay safe from digital arrest scams.
1. Verify: If you receive an unexpected call or message about a legal issue, stay calm and take no immediate action. Scammers try to scare you into making a quick decision. Remember, a real government agency or police will never ask for money or conduct a case over a phone or video call. So always verify the identity of the caller by contacting the official government number or trusted source before doing anything.
2. Report suspicious activity: If you think a call or message you receive may be a scam, report it immediately. Call the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or to report a scam https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfcYou can visit the website of Department of Telecommunication at /.