India

Digital Arrest Fraud On Rise In India, Government Takes Steps To Address New Cyber Crime

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the emerging threat of digital arrest fraud in the 115th episode of  Mann Ki Baat. He emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging people to “stop, think, and act” to avoid falling victim to this scam, which currently lacks legal recognition in India.

The Union Home Ministry has responded by forming a high-level committee led by the Special Secretary of Internal Security. This committee will monitor investigations by agencies and police involved in digital arrest cases. So far in 2024, over 6,000 cases have been reported, with scammers blocking nearly 6 lakh mobile phones and falsely implicating people in drug or money laundering cases. Authorities have ordered the freezing of 3.25 lakh fake accounts used in cyber fraud.

Experts Advise Precautions for Public Protection

Cyber law expert Pawan Duggal stresses the need for public awareness. He advises people to avoid answering calls or video calls from unknown numbers. If a suspicious call is received, disconnecting immediately can help prevent fraud. Duggal also recommends establishing special cyber law courts to expedite case resolution. Currently, perpetrators face up to seven years in prison if proven guilty.

Supreme Court lawyer Virag Gupta notes that “digital arrest” lacks a legal definition. In the past three months alone, scammers defrauded 600 people, stealing ₹400 crore. Many victims, often educated, are coerced by threats of money laundering charges. Gupta explains that government agencies never conduct interrogations online, only in person.

Government and Legal Efforts to Combat Digital Arrest Fraud

Authorities encourage reporting cyber fraud through helpline 130 or local police stations. Swift action—reporting within an hour—can sometimes prevent monetary losses. The government is evaluating further steps and potential legal actions to address digital arrest scams and protect citizens from this evolving cyber threat.

Also Read: Mahakumbh 2025 App Launched To Guide Devotees In Prayagraj

Gopal Krishna

Recent Posts

Amit Shah Inaugurates LiHab Center; Promotes Liver Health On World Liver Day

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the LiHab Center, HEALD initiative. He also released a…

9 hours ago

WAVES Summit 2025 Set To Redefine Global Media And Entertainment Landscape

The WAVES 2025 is set to take place from May 1 to May 4 at…

11 hours ago

‘India Likely To Be A Contender If UN Security Council Expands’, Says IGN Chair

India will 'surely' be a contender for a seat on a reformed United Nations Security…

12 hours ago

‘Post-2014, India Embraced Cultural Pride’, Says Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Friday highlighted a cultural resurgence in India, attributing it…

12 hours ago

Rajnath Singh Unveils Maharana Pratap Statue; Highlights India’s Defence Export Growth

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday unveiled a statue of Maharana Pratap in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati…

13 hours ago

IAF’s Shubhanshu Shukla To Become Second Indian In Space On Axiom Mission 4

India is poised to mark a historic milestone in space exploration as Group Captain Shubhanshu…

13 hours ago