Nashik Man Loses ₹90 Lakh to Digital Arrest Scam

A senior official of a private company in Nashik was allegedly cheated of nearly ₹90 lakh in a shocking case of cyber fraud. The 60-year-old victim was reportedly kept under constant fear and psychological pressure for nearly 12 days in what is commonly known as a “digital arrest” scam.

The fraud allegedly began on August 17 when the victim received a phone call claiming that a bank account had been opened in Jammu using his identity documents. The caller further alleged that the account had been used for large-scale money laundering and had links to terrorist activities.

The fraudsters subsequently contacted the victim through WhatsApp audio and video calls, posing as officials of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), police, and other investigating agencies. They threatened him with arrest and instructed him not to leave his house.

The victim was allegedly kept under continuous surveillance through video calls for around 12 days. The accused also reportedly made him show them his house through video, confirming that he was alone and could be easily intimidated.

To make their claims appear genuine, the fraudsters allegedly sent fake documents in the names of investigating agencies and banks. They then told the victim that his financial assets needed to be verified and that the money would be examined by the Reserve Bank of India.

Under pressure and fearing arrest in connection with the alleged terrorist and money-laundering case, the victim transferred approximately ₹89.99 lakh through RTGS to bank accounts provided by the fraudsters.

The victim reportedly realised that he had been cheated on August 28 and subsequently informed his family members before approaching the police. A case has been registered with the Nashik Cyber Police, and an investigation has been launched.

The police are tracing the mobile numbers, bank accounts, and other digital details used by the fraudsters. The incident has once again highlighted the growing menace of “digital arrest” scams, in which cybercriminals impersonate officials from the police, ATS, CBI, ED, RBI, and other government agencies to intimidate victims into transferring money.

The “digital arrest” scam is a type of cybercrime where fraudsters use psychological pressure and intimidation to cheat victims out of their money. The scam has become increasingly common in recent years, with many people falling prey to it.

The Nashik police have advised people to be cautious when receiving calls or messages from unknown numbers, and to verify the authenticity of the caller before taking any action. They have also urged people to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.

The incident is a reminder of the importance of being vigilant and cautious when dealing with online transactions and communications. It is essential to be aware of the risks of cybercrime and to take steps to protect oneself from falling prey to such scams.

In conclusion, the “digital arrest” scam is a serious threat to individuals and businesses, and it is essential to be aware of the risks and to take steps to protect oneself. The Nashik police are working to combat the menace of cybercrime, and it is crucial for people to be cautious and vigilant when dealing with online transactions and communications.