With the rise of “digital arrest” scams, in which con artists pose as law enforcement officers in order to extract money from gullible victims, cybercrime has reached frightening new heights. In a startling instance from Agra, model Shivankita Dixit was tricked into thinking she was involved in drug-related and human trafficking offenses, which led to her losing Rs 99,000. This incident highlights the urgent need for more awareness and preventative measures as well as the growing threat of digital fraud in India.
Former Miss India loses Rs 99,000 in online fraud
Cybercriminals targeted Shivankita Dixit, a model who has won multiple beauty pageant titles, including Femina Miss India West Bengal 2017. They reached her over WhatsApp. The con artists, posing as Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) agents, charged her with receiving illegal money connected to drug smuggling and human trafficking cases.
In order to “clear her name” and prevent her from being arrested, they wanted an instant payment of Rs 99,000. Shivankita transferred the money, feeling afraid and overwhelmed. She didn’t understand she had been tricked until she talked about the experience with her relatives. Mayank Tiwari, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Lohamandi), affirmed the information while highlighting how dishonest the scheme was.
What is a ‘digital arrest’?
Scammers use a sophisticated cybercrime technique known as “digital arrest,” where they pretend to be law enforcement or regulatory authorities and hold victims digitally. To build credibility and coerce their targets into paying them, they frequently employ video conversations or messaging.
Modus operandi:
First communication: Scammers contact victims by phone, email, or messaging apps like WhatsApp.
False accusations: Victims are said to have participated in illicit activities like human trafficking or money laundering.
Threat of arrest: To scare victims, scammers say they are under “digital arrest” and need to pay a fine to stay out of trouble.
Demands for payment: Victims are forced to provide money or divulge private financial information.
By playing on victims’ confusion and terror, this technique increases their likelihood of complying under pressure.
Why are digital arrest scams increasing?
Enhanced connectivity: Scammers can more easily contact potential victims due to the ubiquitous availability of the internet.
Advanced technology: To look authentic, scammers use websites, phony documents, and high-quality video calls.
Psychological manipulation: Victims can be effectively exploited by using fear and haste.
Lack of knowledge: A large number of people are ignorant of these frauds and neglect to confirm the veracity of statements.
Preventing digital fraud
People need to remain vigilant and educated in order to counteract the growing menace of digital arrest scams.
Key precautions:
Verify the caller: Make sure the individual or organization calling you is who they say they are. Make use of official contact information from reputable sources.
Avoid sharing personal information: Never give out private information over the phone or via messaging, such as passwords, bank account information, or Aadhaar numbers.
Stay calm since scammers prey on panic: Spend some time analyzing the circumstances and speaking with reliable people.
Report suspicious activity: Notify local authorities or cybercrime cells right away if you suspect fraud.
The need for action
The increase in digital fraud arrests emphasizes how urgently law enforcement organizations must improve cybersecurity and public education. To stop this threat, cooperation between governmental organizations, financial institutions, and IT companies is crucial.
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