Hyderabad: 71-Year-Old Man Duped of Nearly ₹2 Crore in Sophisticated Digital Arrest Scam

Hyderabad:
In a troubling case highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime in India, a 71-year-old man from Hyderabad lost nearly ₹2 crore after falling victim to an elaborate digital arrest scam. The senior citizen approached the police earlier this week, stating that cyber fraudsters—posing as government officials—terrified him into believing he was involved in a criminal case, eventually coercing him into transferring money for “verification” and “legal clearance.”

Fraudsters Posed as Officials, Claimed the Victim Was Involved in Criminal Activity

According to police, the ordeal began when the victim received a call from individuals claiming to represent a prominent courier service, alleging that a package in his name contained illegal items. The call was then transferred to scammers impersonating police officials, who accused him of money laundering and narcotics trafficking.

To heighten fear and credibility, the scammers conducted a video call, showing individuals dressed as officers and a fabricated “digital arrest warrant.” The frightened senior was told he must remain on video at all times and follow instructions without informing anyone.

Coerced Into Multiple Transactions

Investigators revealed that the fraudsters convinced the man that his bank accounts were under scrutiny and that he needed to transfer funds to “safe government accounts” to prove his innocence. Fearing immediate arrest, the man complied, transferring nearly ₹2 crore over several days.

The victim was warned against disconnecting the call, speaking to family members, or visiting his bank in person. Only after the fraudsters stopped responding did he realise he had been duped and subsequently filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station.

Police Launch Probe; Warn Citizens About Rising Digital Arrest Scams

Hyderabad Police have registered a case and begun tracking the transactions. Preliminary investigation indicates that the money was quickly moved through multiple mule accounts to evade detection.

Officials warn that digital arrest scams are rapidly increasing across India. Cybercriminals use intimidation, spoofed caller IDs, forged documents, and psychological manipulation to trap victims—especially senior citizens.

Police reiterated that:

No law enforcement agency conducts arrests over phone or video call.

Government officials never demand money transfers for verification or investigation.

Citizens should immediately cut the call and report suspicious communication.

Authorities Urge Public Vigilance

Cybercrime units are urging the public to remain cautious when receiving unexpected calls involving legal threats, parcels, or financial investigations. Hyderabad Police also encouraged victims of cyber fraud to promptly report incidents through the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) or the cybercrime.gov.in portal.

As the investigation continues, authorities stress the need for greater awareness, given the rising sophistication of online scams targeting vulnerable individuals.