Digital Arrest Scam: How Fraudsters Trapped A Pune Retiree Into Transferring Rs 50 Lakh

Cybercriminals are increasingly using digital arrest scams where fraudsters are posing as police and government officials and using threats to manipulate victims. In one such case, an 84-year-old senior citizen from Pune and his wife were allegedly duped of Rs 50.50 lakh after fraudsters claimed the two were involved in a criminal investigation. The scammers contacted the victim through a WhatsApp video call from an international number on July 13, 2026 posing as ATS and CID officers in Lucknow.

How The Fraudsters Gained The Victim’s Trust

The fraudsters allegedly told the victim that his Aadhaar details had surfaced in connection with a criminal case. They claimed that money linked to the offence had been deposited into his bank account and threatened to arrest him and his wife.

To strengthen their false claims, the scammers allegedly sent images of documents that appeared to be official notices, including an arrest warrant and property seizure order. They also collected information about the couple’s savings, fixed deposits (FDs) and other financial assets, according to a report in the Indian Express.

Meanwhile, the fraudsters allegedly kept the victims under pressure by claiming that their phones were being monitored. They instructed the couple not to switch off their devices, avoid discussing the matter with anyone, and remain alert if anyone contacted or visited them.

The scammers further warned the couple to lock their house, claiming that other accused persons linked to the case could harm them. The threats were allegedly used to create panic and prevent the victims from seeking help.

How The Victim Lost Rs 50.50 Lakh

After manipulating the victims, the fraudsters then instructed the two to liquidate the FDs and transfer the funds into their savings account and complete RTGS for further transfer to another account. According to report, on July 14, the victim transferred Rs 50.50 lakh to a bank account that the scammers claimed was meant for verification by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

However, when the promised refund did not arrive, the fraudsters allegedly demanded an additional Rs 14.50 lakh as a bond amount. The victim then realised that he had been cheated.

Following this, the victim contacted the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) and approached Pune Cyber Police. The police registered an FIR against unidentified persons under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act, 2000.

To protect yourself from a digital arrest scam, remain alert against digital arrest scams, avoid making payments under pressure and immediately report suspicious calls to the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).