Another employee from Vizag turns victim of digital arrest, loses Rs 14 lakh

VISAKHAPATNAM: A central government employee from Vizag has become the latest victim of a “digital arrest” fraud, losing over ₹14 lakh to cybercriminals posing as Bengaluru Police and CBI officers. The conmen allegedly threatened him with false criminal charges and coerced him into transferring money. The employee first received a call from an unknown person claiming to be with the Bengaluru Police. The caller alleged that a SIM card issued using the employee’s Aadhaar was being misused for illegal activities, including circulation of objectionable videos and photos. The caller further claimed that a case had been registered against him and asked him to visit Bengaluru for investigation. Despite denying any involvement, the victim received another call from the same number. This time, the caller alleged that the victim was implicated in a major case and that a court had issued an arrest warrant against him. The call was then transferred to another person who introduced himself as a CBI officer. The fraudsters warned that he would be arrested and dismissed from service unless he cooperated. They instructed him not to disclose the matter to anyone and threatened him with dire consequences. The cybercrooks demanded that he deposit ₹15 lakh for “verification purposes,” assuring him the amount would be refunded after scrutiny. Frightened, the victim eventually transferred all his savings — over ₹14 lakh. When the promised refund never came, he realised he had been cheated and lodged a complaint with the Vizag cybercrime police. Police said that, in a similar manner, two other people from Vizag had also been duped of over ₹4 lakh. Despite repeated awareness campaigns, officials noted that many still fall prey to “digital arrest” scams due to fear and confusion. In some cases, victims hesitate to report such crimes out of shame, fear, or lack of awareness. Police added that some victims even fall into depression due to the emotional toll. The modus operandi involves posing as enforcement officials and creating a sense of urgency and panic, particularly targeting senior citizens. The Vizag police said they plan to further step up awareness campaigns to curb such crimes.