Bengaluru couple loses Rs 4.7cr to digital arrest scam: Here’s what happened and how to stay safe

In a shocking case, an elderly couple in Bengaluru lost Rs 4.7 crore after falling victim to the popular digital arrest scam. The couple, aged 77 and 75, were reportedly kept isolated in their own home for nearly two months by fraudsters. Keep reading to know how the scam unfolded and how to avoid falling for such frauds.

The scam took place between March 19 and May 15. The victims, residents of JP Nagar, were told that they were being investigated for money laundering and were under a Supreme Court arrest warrant, according to TOI.

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In his complaint to the police, the victim shared that the fraudsters used fake documents and pretended to be officials. The couple was warned not to speak to anyone or seek help. The scammers said any contact with the outside world could result in legal consequences. The fraudsters then forced them to transfer huge sums of money to their bank accounts. 

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How to avoid falling for such scams

• Always verify the identity of officials by calling the official helpline numbers of the agency they claim to represent.
• Do not believe in threats of arrest or legal action through phone calls or video chats. Real officials follow proper procedures.
• Avoid isolation if someone asks you to stay quiet or cut off communication—it is a major red flag.
• Report suspicious calls or messages to the police immediately.
• Staying informed and alert is the best way to protect yourself from such scams.

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