Digital Arrest Scam: How It Works and Exactly What to Do If You Get That Call

Cyber Blog
24 Sep 2026
Bajaj General Insurance
255 Viewed

Picture this: You get a video call from a policeman who says your identity is being used for money-laundering purposes. They say you are "digitally arrested" and can't leave your home. You would become worried, right?

You are experiencing the digital arrest scam.

This scam is coming to steal millions from innocent victims by capitalising on fear. Here's everything you need to know about this scam and the role of a cyber insurance plan in your safety net.

What is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A digital arrest scam is a sophisticated cyber extortion tactic where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement agencies, such as the CBI, Customs, or Cyber Police. They contact you via voice or video calls, falsely claiming that your bank account, Aadhaar, or phone number is linked to severe criminal activities.

To create panic, they state you are under ‘digital arrest,’ meaning you are forbidden from disconnecting the call or leaving your current location. Their ultimate goal is to force you into transferring money to clear your name.

How Does the Digital Arrest Scam in India Work?

The digital arrest scam in India has seen a massive surge recently, operating on a highly organised psychological manipulation playbook. Scammers follow a structured approach to trap victims:

Stage	Scammer's Action	The Impact on You
The Initial Contact	You receive an automated call or a message claiming a parcel is stuck, or your number is being blocked.	Grabs your attention and creates immediate concern
The Transfer	The call is transferred to a fake "police officer" or "customs official."	Builds false authority and trust.
The Intimidation	Scammers initiate a video call (often on Skype or WhatsApp) sitting in a fake police station setup.	Triggers intense fear, panic, and confusion.
The Digital Arrest	They present fake arrest warrants or RBI letters and demand you stay on camera.	Isolates you from family, friends, and help.
The Extortion	They demand a "security deposit" or penalty fee to unfreeze your accounts or clear your name.	Leads to massive financial loss.

What are the Examples of Digital Arrest Scams?

In order to make the threat seem realistic, fraudsters create very plausible scenarios. Typical examples include:

The Illegal Package: Your customs agent informs you that they seized a package in your name that contained illicit drugs, counterfeit passports or other contraband.
Money Laundering Charges: You are accused of having provided a bank account or an Aadhaar card for any terrorist or human trafficker to use for money laundering.
Telecom Offences: You get a notice that all your mobile numbers are being disconnected as one of them is involved in a cybercrime.
Fake Warrants: WhatsApp scammers will send fake Supreme Court or CBI arrest warrants. They tell you that if you do not agree to be physically arrested now, you will be taken into custody immediately.

How to Protect Yourself From a Digital Arrest Scam?

There is no need to panic about a digital arrest scam. If you are wondering, 'How can I protect myself and my close ones from a digital arrest?’, here are some tips:

Indian law enforcement agencies do not conduct arrests or interrogations through Skype, WhatsApp, or phone calls.
Avoid panic and do not make rushed decisions or payments under pressure.
If someone claims to represent a government agency, verify their identity through official channels.
Never install apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer or give strangers remote access to your device.
Cyber insurance can provide financial protection against certain losses resulting from cyber fraud and scams.

What to do if You Have Faced a Digital Arrest Scam?

If you realise you have been trapped in this scam, immediate action is crucial to minimise damage. Here is what to do:

Immediately cut the connection and do not engage further
Open the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and register a complaint
Call your bank and freeze your accounts and stop any transactions
If you have cybercrime, then inform Bajaj General Insurance about the incident

Bottom Line

The digital arrest scam is an assault on fear and ignorance. Never forget that no real police officer will call you over a video call and ask for money to withdraw a case. Be alert, stay informed and alert the 1930 helpline if you face any such threat. Most importantly, protect yourself against all cyber threats by investing in Bajaj General Insurance's cyber insurance. Download the Bajaj General app today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Arrest Scam

What to do after receiving a scam call?

Disconnect immediately. Do not share personal details. Block the number and report the incident on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or call the 1930 helpline for immediate assistance.

How can I recover money from a digital arrest scam?

Report the fraud to your bank and file a complaint via the 1930 helpline. Additionally, having Bajaj General Insurance’s cyber insurance helps recover financial losses incurred during the fraud.

Can a scammer access your phone if you receive a call?

Simply answering a call won't compromise your phone. However, if scammers trick you into clicking malicious links or downloading screen-sharing apps during the call, they can steal your data.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.