HIGHLIGHTS

It all begun with an automated call supposedly from a telecom authority.

The call threatened the victim that her phone number would be disconnected within two hours due to alleged links to hawala transactions.

When she sought clarification, she was connected to an individual claiming to be a regulatory officer.

This tale begins with a seemingly innocuous text message, but it spiraled into a month filled with anxiety, despair, and significant financial devastation. A retired schoolteacher residing in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad, found herself ensnared in a sinister cybercrime scheme referred to as digital arrest. Ultimately, she suffered a staggering loss of ₹56 lakh as she fell victim to the manipulations of adept fraudsters. Read on to learn how this elaborate scam unfolded, and discover measures you can take to prevent becoming a target in similar situations.

Initially, an automated call disrupted her day, purportedly from a telecom authority. During the call, she was informed that her phone number was at risk of being disconnected within two hours because of an alleged involvement in hawala transactions. Attempting to clarify the issue, she was transitioned to someone who presented themselves as a regulatory officer, according to reports by TOI.

For insights on related scams, you can refer to the following article: Businessman loses over ₹4 crore in investment scam: Here’s what happened.

The fraudulent officer advised her to report the issue at the Delhi Police headquarters but offered a much simpler alternative: filing the report online. Trusting the situation, she complied and was subsequently connected to another fraudster who proceeded to collect her personal information under the false pretense of filing a report.

These scammers claimed that a bank manager in Delhi had exploited her number to send inappropriate messages and open several bank accounts for illegitimate transactions. They intensified their threats, asserting that her son, who was residing in the UK, could face deportation due to these bogus claims.

Each day, from 9:30 AM to 6 PM, a man identifying himself as Inspector Rakesh maintained video calls, closely monitoring her every action. This ongoing surveillance added to her sense of fear and helplessness.

On April 2, the scammers instructed her to visit a Punjab National Bank branch in Delhi, where they coerced her into making money transfers. Under immense pressure, she transferred a total of ₹56 lakh. The scam only came to light when the victim, still feeling compelled to secure more finances, discussed the prospect of selling her jewelry with a friend. Recognizing the red flags, her friend quickly alerted her to the fraudulent situation.

For more information related to scams, check out this article: Man loses ₹1.6 crore in crypto investment scam: Here’s what happened and ways to stay safe.

How to Avoid Falling Victim to Such Scams

• Never disclose personal or banking information over calls from unknown sources.
• Be aware that government officials or police will not request money or monitor you via video.
• Consult a trusted family member or friend if you’re feeling trapped or uncertain about a situation.
• If in doubt, immediately contact your local police or the cybercrime helpline for assistance.
• If anyone pressures you for quick financial actions, pause and verify the legitimacy of the request.