Digital trap
The caller reportedly introduced himself as ED Inspector Vijay Khanna and continued demanding money, according to the complaint Singh subsequently approached the cyber crime police station and reported the fraud.
Singh was told that he could be arrested in connection with the alleged ransom case and that he would have to obtain a “no objection certificate” to avoid arrest. But the fraudsters had already moved the money, police said. Do not transfer money to “verify” your bank account or prove your innocence.
The fraudster then allegedly turned the conversation into a threat. Soon afterwards, another video call came from the same number. This time, a man appeared on screen wearing a police uniform, apparently to give the entire operation an air of authenticity. The fraudsters allegedly sent Singh a fake arrest warrant bearing his name over WhatsApp and instructed him to cooperate with the purported investigation. What followed was an extended period of psychological pressure. Even after Singh realised that he had been cheated, one of the suspected associates allegedly continued calling him. Do not share banking credentials or OTPs. Inform family members and contact the police immediately. Police also stressed that victims of cyber financial fraud should report the incident without delay, as prompt reporting can help investigators initiate steps to freeze or recover the transferred funds.
By the time the retired banker realised he had been trapped in an elaborate ‘digital arrest’ scam, cyber fraudsters had allegedly siphoned off ₹95.65 lakh from his savings. On Sept 19, they allegedly told him that his bank deposits and savings needed to be verified as part of the investigation. Victim Adesh Kumar Singh, a resident of Indiranagar, has now approached the cyber crime police station, which has registered a case and launched an investigation.
Singh was allegedly told that he was under ‘digital arrest’ and was required to remain available on video calls while the supposed investigation continued. The fraudsters then shifted their focus to his finances. Singh was instructed to transfer money to bank accounts provided by them. Under pressure, he allegedly broke his fixed deposits and began transferring his savings.