CyberFraud – CBI Probes Rs 10 Crore Digital Arrest Scam Targeting Senior Citizen

CyberFraud – India’s premier investigating agency has taken over a high-value cyber fraud case involving a retired engineer who was allegedly deceived into transferring over Rs 10 crore. The case, initially handled by Delhi Police, is now being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation following the scale and complexity of the crime.

Case Handed Over to Central Agency

Officials confirmed that the case pertains to a 73-year-old resident of Rohini who fell victim to what investigators describe as a “digital arrest” scam. The Delhi Police’s special cell had been examining the matter before it was escalated to a central agency for a more extensive probe.

The complaint was first registered in October 2024 after the victim reported being manipulated through a series of calls. The investigation was later transferred to a specialized intelligence unit, which began tracking financial transactions and digital footprints linked to the fraud.

Modus Operandi of the Fraudsters

According to investigators, the fraud was executed by individuals posing as representatives of an international courier service. The victim was informed that a parcel addressed to him had been intercepted at Mumbai airport. The callers claimed the shipment contained illegal substances, creating a sense of urgency and fear.

The scammers then introduced themselves as law enforcement officials, alleging involvement of a crime branch. This tactic was used to intimidate the victim and establish credibility. He was instructed to join a video call using a communication platform, where he was subjected to prolonged questioning.

Prolonged Psychological Pressure

Authorities revealed that the victim remained under constant virtual surveillance for nearly eight hours. During this period, the fraudsters reportedly restricted his communication and convinced him that he was under official investigation. The term “digital arrest” is used by investigators to describe this method of psychological confinement.

Under pressure, the victim was coerced into transferring funds to multiple bank accounts. The total amount transferred is estimated to be around Rs 10.3 crore. Officials believe that the scammers carefully orchestrated the transaction process to avoid immediate detection.

Financial Trail and Recovery Efforts

Investigators have managed to freeze approximately Rs 60 lakh from the transferred amount. However, the remaining funds were quickly dispersed across several accounts, making recovery more challenging.

Authorities suspect that while the primary operators were based overseas, they had support networks within India. These local associates allegedly helped gather personal details about the victim and facilitated the movement of funds through domestic banking channels.

Threats Extended to Family Members

The victim informed officials that the accused also issued threats involving his children, who reside abroad. This added another layer of pressure, compelling him to comply with the demands without resistance.

Following the incident, his family approached law enforcement authorities, leading to the registration of a formal case under relevant sections of the law.

Growing Concern Over Digital Arrest Scams

Law enforcement agencies have noted a rise in such cyber fraud cases, where criminals impersonate officials to exploit fear and confusion. These scams often involve detailed scripts and coordinated efforts across borders, making them difficult to detect in real time.

Officials have urged citizens, especially senior individuals, to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited calls related to legal or financial matters. Verification through official channels is strongly advised before taking any action.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on identifying the entire network involved in the operation and tracing the remaining funds.