Cyber Scam
Cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit users. In a recent case of digital arrest scam, a 78-year-old retired banker from Delhi, Naresh Malhotra, was duped of more than Rs 23 crore after falling victim to what police are calling a “digital arrest scam.” It all started in early August, when Malhotra received a call from a woman claiming to be a senior telecom official. She told him his mobile number was being used for criminal activities. Before he could process the shock, he was contacted by others pretending to be from the Mumbai Police, Enforcement Directorate, and even the CBI.
They accused him of links to terrorist groups, threatened him with legal action, and ordered him not to leave his home. Every two hours, Malhotra had to appear on video calls with the fraudsters. They even made him sign a document promising to keep the matter secret. To make their story believable, they sent him a fake bail order. They warned him about losing his passport, being banned from international travel, and even harm to his family if he disobeyed.
Under constant psychological pressure, Malhotra transferred Rs 23 crore from his three bank accounts in 20 transactions over the course of one month, between August 4 and September 4. They had full access to his banking details and investment information.
It was only after realising his loss that Malhotra approached the police. On September 19, the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) Unit of Delhi Police registered an FIR. Investigators have managed to freeze around ₹2.3 crore, but most of the money is still missing.
Also read: Amazon Great Indian Festival sale: Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus 5G available with a flat Rs 9,000 discount
From fake officials to forged documents and 24/7 surveillance, fraudsters are exploiting technology and fear to trap even educated and experienced victims. Authorities have urged people to exercise caution, not to trust unknown callers, never to share their bank details, and always to verify information with official agencies before taking action.