Fraudsters threaten retired NGRI scientist with ‘digital arrest’, cheat him of ₹88 lakh
HYDERABAD: Cyber fraudsters cheated a retired scientist of the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) of ₹88.20 lakh after threatening him with a so-called “digital arrest” in a fabricated money laundering case.
Police said the victim, P V S S Rajagopala Sarma, 76, a former central government employee, filed a complaint on September 15, 2025. He said that on August 28, he received a call from +91 9160****62, informing him that an FIR had been registered against him by Karnataka Police and that an arrest warrant had been issued.
Threat of ‘digital arrest’
The caller transferred him to another person claiming to be from Mumbai Police, who asked him to join a Skype call with one “Akash Chaudary”, posing as a deputy superintendent of police in the CBI. On the call, Sarma was told that he had been “digitally arrested” and could not disconnect until his financial records were cleared.
The fraudsters alleged that 30 bank accounts had been opened in his name and linked to money laundering. They shared forged documents bearing the letterheads of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Supreme Court, and CBI, including a fake arrest order.
Fearing legal action, Sarma revealed details of his State Bank of India accounts. He was instructed to transfer his deposits to an “RBI Department” account for verification. Believing the claim that the funds would be refunded in four days, he transferred ₹88.20 lakh.
What is digital arrest fraud?
“Digital arrest” fraud is a new type of cybercrime emerging in India and abroad. Fraudsters impersonate agencies such as police, CBI, Enforcement Directorate, RBI, or even courts, and extort money by creating fear.
Fake calls/video calls: Victims are contacted on phone, WhatsApp, or video call by people claiming to be law enforcement officers.
False accusations: They are told that their Aadhaar, PAN, or bank account is linked to crimes such as money laundering, drugs, or cyber fraud.
Threat of “digital arrest”: Victims are warned that they are under “virtual custody,” must stay on a video call, and cannot leave their home until they “prove their innocence.”
Extortion: Money is demanded as “bail,” “verification fee,” or “security deposit.”
Cyber experts caution that the term “digital arrest” has no legal standing in India. It is a tactic used by cybercriminals to intimidate people into transferring money. Victims are often isolated, kept on video calls for hours or days, and lose lakhs of rupees believing they are dealing with genuine authorities.
Case registered in Hyderabad
After realising the fraud, Sarma lodged a complaint, seeking action against the accused and recovery of his money. Police said a case has been registered and an investigation is underway.
Image Credits: FreePik
