Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned society about a new form of virtual scam, known as "digital arrest." In this scheme, scammers impersonate police or tax officials through video calls, wearing official uniforms and displaying fake identification documents.
These scammers use persuasive speeches to deceive victims, claiming that they have sent a package by mail containing illegal products, such as drugs, or that their mobile devices are linked to illegal activities. In some cases, they have threatened to take legal action if not paid to resolve the alleged offenses.
Last August, the police in India arrested several men allegedly involved in this type of scam. It was reported that these individuals manipulated and scammed a victim out of more than 20 million rupees, equivalent to about $237,000.
In light of this situation, Modi urged the population to stay calm and not panic if contacted by supposed government agents online. He recommended that victims record the interactions or take screenshots if possible, and requested that the crime be reported to local authorities and the national cyber help line to protect themselves from such scams.
