Digital Arrest scams are one of the fastest-spreading and psychologically damaging cybercrimes in India. Fraudsters pretend to be police officials, CBI officers, cyber cell inspectors, customs authorities, or RBI officers. They scare the victim by saying their Aadhaar, PAN, bank account, or mobile number is linked to a criminal case. After creating fear, they force the victim to stay on a video call and follow instructions.
Understanding how these scams work and learning the correct process of reporting is extremely important for your safety.
What Happens in a Digital Arrest Scam?
Fraudsters create panic by accusing you of involvement in illegal activities. They show fake digital notices, fake police ID cards, and fabricated FIRs. Their main goal is to trap you mentally so you keep following their instructions without verifying anything.
Important signs include:
• Calling from WhatsApp/Telegram numbers
• Forcing you to sit alone in a room
• Telling you not to cut the call
• Showing fake digital documents
• Threatening immediate arrest
Recognizing these warning signs helps in reporting correctly.
Why Quick Reporting Is Important
Delay in reporting reduces the chances of:
• Blocking the scammer’s bank account
• Reversing your money
• Preventing further fraud
• Supporting official investigation
Quick action = higher chances of recovery and safety.
How to Report a Digital Arrest Scam – Complete Guide
Below are the exact steps you must follow after receiving such a call or becoming a victim.
Immediately Disconnect the Call
The first step is to protect yourself mentally. These scams only work when you stay on the call. Once you disconnect, the scammer loses control over you.
Write Down the Caller’s Number and Details
Capture and save:
• Phone number
• Display name
• Fake ID card shared
• Fake FIR screenshot
• Any documents they sent
These become essential evidence in your complaint.
Inform Your Family or Someone Close
Scammers isolate victims intentionally. Sharing the incident with someone trusted helps you stay calm and take correct steps.
Save All Evidence for Reporting
Do not delete anything. Save:
• Screenshots of chats
• Call recordings
• Video clips of the caller
• Payment receipts
• Bank SMS
• WhatsApp messages
• Transaction alerts
This evidence strengthens your case legally and financially.
Report the Incident Immediately to Cyber Authorities
Quick reporting helps freeze fraudulent accounts and prevent further misuse.
How to File a Cyber Complaint / FIR for Digital Arrest Scam
Follow these steps for proper documentation and action.
Prepare Your Information Before Filing a Complaint
Keep the following ready:
• Identity proof
• Mobile number used
• Details of the call
• Evidence (screenshots, audio, video)
• Bank statement if money was sent
Submit Your Cyber Complaint Online
Provide:
• A detailed explanation of incident
• All screenshots and attachments
• Fraud category (Impersonation / Financial Fraud / Extortion)
Online reporting helps authorities track patterns and take quick action.
Visit the Nearest Cyber Police Station (Highly Recommended)
Carry a physical set of documents:
• Aadhaar/PAN
• Screenshots
• Call logs
• Bank proof
• Written explanation
Explain the entire incident clearly, stating that the scammer impersonated government officials.
Request FIR Registration (If Money Was Paid)
If you suffered financial loss, request registration of an FIR under:
• Cheating
• Extortion
• Criminal impersonation
• IT Act offences
An FIR strengthens your bank reversal and police investigation.
If You Already Paid Money – Take These Actions Immediately
Inform Your Bank for an Emergency Transaction Freeze
Call customer care or visit the branch. Request:
• Dispute marking
• Chargeback
• Reversal
• Outgoing freeze
The faster you inform the bank, the better the chances of recovery.
Submit a Written Application to Your Bank
Use the below format:
Application to Bank for Lien / Hold / Freeze Removal
Subject: Request to Remove Lien / Hold / Freeze from Bank Account
To,
The Branch Manager,
[Bank Name]
I request removal of the lien/hold placed on my account due to a cyber fraud incident. I became a victim of a Digital Arrest scam and was forced to act under fear. I am attaching my documents for verification. Kindly coordinate with the cyber cell and unfreeze my account at the earliest.
Name
Account Number
Address
Signature
Application to Cyber Cell for NOC (If Bank Account Is Frozen)
Subject: Request for NOC to Remove Bank Account Freeze
To,
The Cyber Crime Police Station,
[City]
I request issuance of a No Objection Certificate to remove the freeze placed on my bank account. I am a victim of a Digital Arrest scam, and the transaction in question happened under pressure and fear. I am not involved in any fraudulent activity. Kindly verify my documents and authorize the bank to restore account operations.
Attachments:
• Identity Proof
• Address Proof
• Bank Statement
• Transaction Proof
Name
Address
Signature
Additional Safety Tips to Protect Yourself from Digital Arrest Scams
You can avoid becoming a victim by following these precautions:
• Police never arrest, interrogate, or investigate through video calls.
• No government officer ever demands money on calls.
• Never share Aadhaar, PAN, OTP, passwords, or bank details with anyone.
• Disconnect any suspicious call immediately.
• Always verify with your nearest police station.
• Report cyber fraud incidents without delay.
• Seek legal help if you receive any notice or bank freeze.
Disclaimer
This content is purely for educational and informational purposes. It is not a promotion, advertisement, or solicitation. The information is for public awareness only. If you are a victim of cybercrime, call 1930 or report to the National Cybercrime Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) immediately.