Retired Nurse Duped Of Rs 90.65 Lakh In Digital Arrest Cyber Fraud

A 72-year-old retired nurse from Jaripatka in Nagpur allegedly lost Rs 90.65 lakh in a cyber fraud case after criminals posing as law enforcement officials kept her under a fake “digital arrest” for several weeks, police said on Sunday.

Fraud Began With A Phone Call

According to cyber police officials, the incident began in November last year when the woman received a call from a person claiming to be an officer from a law enforcement agency.

The caller allegedly informed her that her name had surfaced in a money laundering case and that she could face arrest. Police said the fraudsters used fear and intimidation to convince the woman that she was under investigation.

To make the claims appear genuine, the accused reportedly conducted fake police inquiries and court proceedings through video calls. During these calls, they allegedly behaved like officials and warned the woman not to discuss the matter with anyone.

Police said the accused created constant pressure and fear by repeatedly contacting her and monitoring her movements through calls and video interactions.

Victim Transferred Money Over Two Weeks

Under pressure, the woman allegedly transferred Rs 90.65 lakh to different bank accounts between November 26 and December 9.

The fraudsters reportedly assured her that the money was being transferred only for “verification” purposes and would be refunded if she was found innocent in the so-called investigation.

However, after receiving the money, the accused stopped all communication with her. It was then that the woman realised she had been cheated and approached the police.

Cyber police officials have told PTI that an investigation is underway and efforts are being made to trace and arrest the accused persons involved in the case.

Rise In ‘Digital Arrest’ Cases

Digital arrest has emerged as a growing form of cybercrime across the country. In such scams, fraudsters pose as police officers, court officials or government agency personnel to threaten victims through audio and video calls.

The accused often claim that the victim is linked to crimes such as money laundering, parcel scams or illegal financial transactions. Victims are then forced to transfer money in the name of verification, investigation or security clearance.

Cyber police officials warned citizens that no police agency, court or government department conducts arrests or investigations through video calls or asks people to transfer money online to avoid legal action.

Officials advised people to verify such claims directly with authorities, avoid sharing banking details with strangers, and immediately report suspicious calls to cybercrime helplines or local police.

FAQs

1. What is a digital arrest scam?

   A digital arrest scam is a cyber fraud where criminals pretend to be police or government officials and threaten victims through calls or video chats to extort money.

2. How did the retired nurse lose money in the scam?

   The fraudsters allegedly convinced the woman that she was involved in a money laundering case and pressured her into transferring Rs 90.65 lakh over several days.

3. Can police or courts ask for money transfers online?

   No. Police, courts or government agencies do not ask citizens to transfer money online for investigations, verification or to avoid arrest.