Cybercrime has become a major problem in today’s digital world. It includes crimes like hacking, stealing data, online fraud, cyberbullying, and spreading harmful software. People who use online banking, social media, or computers for work can easily become victims. For example, someone may steal your identity using a fake email, infect your computer with a virus, or trick you with an online scam. These crimes can cause money loss, stress, and damage to one’s reputation. Governments are making stricter laws and improving cybersecurity, but people must also protect themselves by updating devices, using antivirus software, and being careful about sharing personal information online.
Even though the Reserve Bank of India, banks, and agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have issued many warnings, cases of digital arrest scams are rising fast. Victims include educated people, ex-police officers, retired officials, young women, and senior citizens. The method used in most of these scams is similar.
First, you receive a call from someone pretending to be a law enforcement officer. They say you are involved in a serious crime. Then they connect you to so-called “senior officers” on a video call. They talk in legal terms to make everything sound real. During this fake investigation, they order you to stay inside your home or room and not talk to anyone. They tell you to keep your phone or laptop camera on at all times. These scammers monitor you for hours or even days while asking constant questions. Eventually, they demand a large amount of money to “stop your arrest” or “avoid legal action.” Terrified and tired, many people pay. After the money is sent, the callers disappear, and the victim’s life savings are gone forever.
According to government data, Indians lost ₹19 billion last year in more than 1.2 lakh digital arrest scams. These cases have nearly tripled between 2022 and 2024. Cybercriminals operate across borders and target everyone—teachers, bankers, businesspeople, doctors, and more. Unfortunately, some victims become so traumatized that they take their own lives. Even though India has stricter cybercrime laws today, many people are still falling for these scams.
The Supreme Court, taking cognizance of the growing digital arrest scam, has directed the CBI to investigate all cases of digital arrest. There is no doubt that organized gangs of cybercriminals are operating, possibly linked to the banking sector. The Supreme Court has also issued strict instructions to strengthen the CBI investigation. The CBI will have full freedom under the Prevention of Corruption Act to investigate the role of bankers where bank accounts have been opened for the purpose of digital arrest scams. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been asked to assist this Court in examining whether artificial intelligence or machine learning can be applied to identify such suspicious accounts and prevent the laundering of proceeds of crime. Under the Information Technology Intermediaries Rules 2021, officials have been ordered to cooperate with the CBI as needed during the investigation. States that have not yet given consent to the CBI for investigations in their respective states have been directed to provide consent to the investigation so that the CBI can conduct comprehensive action on a pan-India basis. Considering the gravity of such crimes and the fact that they may occur outside India’s territorial jurisdiction, the CBI should request assistance from Interpol authorities if necessary. Telecom service providers are being negligent by issuing multiple SIM cards in the same name. The court has also issued instructions to prevent SIM card misuse. Cybercriminals use various tactics to commit fraud. For example, part-time job scams involve luring candidates with money. People are also losing their hard-earned money due to fear of getting involved with law enforcement and the judiciary. Cybercriminals are even using the names of prominent judges. For Indians, a single phone call from an unknown number can disrupt their lives. It is best to be vigilant and avoid taking any rash action when receiving such calls.
