Hyderabad: The Reserve Bank of India warned citizens about the rising digital arrest scam, clarifying that no such concept exists in law enforcement.
In an advisory issued to the public, the RBI said fraudsters were making fake calls claiming that victims were under “digital arrest.”
The central bank said such calls were part of a digital arrest scam designed to frighten people and extort money.
Officials urged citizens not to panic if they receive such calls.
The RBI stressed that law enforcement agencies do not place individuals under digital arrest through phone calls or online communication.
Digital arrest scam calls target personal and financial data
The RBI said fraudsters often demand money or sensitive information during a digital scam call.
Victims are usually pressured into sharing personal details or transferring money immediately.
The advisory warned people never to disclose personal or financial information during such calls.
Citizens were also advised not to make any payments to callers claiming to conduct a digital arrest.
The RBI urged people to immediately report any digital arrest incidents.
Complaints can be filed through the national cybercrime portal at cybercrime.gov.in.
People can also seek help by calling the cybercrime helpline number 1930.
The RBI said further information about such frauds was available on its public awareness platform.
Digital arrest scam cases rising despite repeated warnings
The central bank issued the advisory after several digital arrest cases were reported recently in the media.
Authorities said police departments, banks and government agencies had repeatedly warned citizens about such frauds.
Despite these warnings, scammers continue to target people using fear-based tactics.
The RBI urged the public to stay alert and avoid falling victim to such cybercrime schemes.