PM Modi Warns Nation About 'Digital Arrest' Scams: Here's How Fraudsters Operate

In his latest Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi alerted the nation to the growing menace of 'digital arrest' frauds, where scammers pose as government officials to extort money.

He explained how fraudsters claim to represent agencies like the police, CBI, RBI, or narcotics officials, and create an "atmosphere of fear" to trap unsuspecting victims, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Photo Credit: PTI

PM Modi outlined the three-step process used by these scammers. First, they gather personal information. Next, they instil fear by threatening legal action or arrests. Finally, they pressure victims into transferring large sums of money under a time constraint.

The Prime Minister emphasised that no legitimate government agency conducts investigations over the phone or video calls, as reported by Hindustan Times.

He urged people to remain vigilant, advising them to "stop, think, and act" when faced with such calls. He also encouraged citizens to record suspicious interactions and report them to the authorities via the national cyber helpline (1930) or the police.

PM Modi's warning comes after recent cases, including the high-profile scam involving Vardhman Group Chairman SP Oswal, who lost ₹7 crore after fraudsters posed as CBI officials and held him in "digital custody." as per media reports.

To avoid falling victim, Modi reminded people that government agencies never demand money or issue threats over the phone and urged the public to report any such attempts.