Retired Ahemdabad teacher loses Rs 38 lakh in digital arrest scam: How to be safe

A 59-year-old retired teacher from Ahmedabad has lost nearly Rs 38.7 lakh after falling victim to a digital arrest scam. According to reports, the ordeal started on September 12 when the victim received a call from someone claiming to be a telecom company official. The caller alleged that a SIM card linked to the teacher’s Aadhaar was being misused in Mumbai to distribute objectionable content. To make the charge sound credible, the fraudster connected him to fake “Mumbai Crime Branch” officers on video calls.

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The so-called officers told the teacher that an FIR had been filed against him for money laundering and that he could face arrest unless he cooperated. They showed him forged ID cards, appeared in police uniforms on WhatsApp video, and even displayed fake documents such as Supreme Court NOCs and police clearance papers to win his trust.

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The scammers then instructed the teacher to uninstall social media apps, remain under their constant online “surveillance,” and share financial details of his wife and daughter. Over the next nine days, the family was pressured into transferring Rs 38.7 lakh across multiple bank accounts under the pretext of “verification.” The fraudsters assured him that the money would be refunded within 72 hours.

It was only after coming across news reports of similar scams that the victim realised he had been duped. He approached the Ahmedabad Cybercrime Branch and filed a complaint. An FIR has now been registered, and an investigation is underway to trace the culprits.

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Cybercrime officials have repeatedly warned citizens about the rise of digital arrest scams, where conmen impersonate law enforcement agencies or government officials to instil fear and extort money. Victims are usually threatened with fabricated cases of drug trafficking, money laundering, or cybercrime, and then coerced into transferring large sums.

Authorities have advised people to remain cautious, verify claims directly with local police, and never share personal or financial information over unsolicited calls or messages.

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Himani Jha

Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile