Mumbai: In a shocking case of cyber fraud, an 86-year-old woman from Mumbai fell prey to a digital arrest scam, losing a staggering Rs 20.25 crore. The scam, which unfolded between December 26, 2024, and March 3, 2025, involved fraudsters posing as police officials who convinced the victim that her Aadhaar card was being misused for illegal activities, including money laundering.
The Scam’s Modus Operandi
The scam began with a call from an individual claiming to be a police officer, informing the victim that her Aadhaar card and other personal information had been used to open a new bank account involved in illegal activities. The scammers threatened her with legal action, stating that the case would implicate her family members as well. To avoid legal consequences, she was coerced into transferring money to various bank accounts.
Digital Arrest: A Psychological Tactic
Throughout the scam, the victim was instructed to remain under “digital arrest,” a tactic designed to isolate her from seeking help or sharing information with others. This psychological manipulation allowed the scammers to maintain control over the situation, ensuring that the victim remained compliant with their demands.
Investigation and Arrests
Once the victim realized she had been scammed, she reported the incident to the police, who promptly launched an investigation. Authorities have tracked the transactions and detained the scammers. Two individuals, Shayan Jamil Sheikh and Rajik Azam Butt, both 20 years old, have been arrested in connection with the scam. The investigation is ongoing, with indications that one of the suspects may be linked to a larger international scam.
Prevalence of Digital Arrest Scams
This case highlights the growing concern of digital arrest scams, which exploit victims’ fear of legal repercussions. Such scams often target vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, who may be less familiar with digital fraud tactics. It underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance against these sophisticated cybercrimes.
Prevention Measures
To avoid falling prey to similar scams, individuals should be cautious of unsolicited calls claiming to be from official agencies. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of such calls and never share personal or financial information over the phone. Reporting suspicious activities to cybercrime helplines can also help prevent further losses.