The Digital Arrest Scam has shaken many people across India. In this fraud, scammers pretend to be police officers, cybercrime officials, or CBI agents, and falsely accuse people of crimes like drug trafficking, money laundering, or cyber fraud. They claim the victim is under “digital arrest” and demand money to settle the case.

If you ever receive such a call, it is important to report it immediately. The Government of India has set up dedicated platforms and helplines to help victims of cybercrime. Below are the step-by-step instructions to report a digital arrest cybercrime online.

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Step 1: Do Not Panic

• Understand that police never arrest people over WhatsApp or Skype calls.

• Stay calm and do not transfer any money to the fraudsters.

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Step 2: Note Down the Details of the Fraud Call

• Phone number used to contact you.

• Screenshots of WhatsApp/Skype/Telegram calls.

• Any messages, IDs, or documents shared by the scammers.

• Bank account/UPI ID details if they asked for money.

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Step 3: Call the National Cybercrime Helpline – 1930

• Immediately dial 1930, the official cybercrime helpline.

• Provide all details of the fraudulent call.

• If money has been transferred, quick reporting increases the chance of recovery.

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Step 4: File a Complaint on the Cybercrime Portal

1. Visit the official portal: cybercrime.gov.in.

2. Register with your mobile number and email.

3. Select the option Report Other Cyber Crimes.

4. Choose Online Financial Fraud / Impersonation / Cyber Extortion.

5. Fill in the details of the incident.

6. Upload supporting evidence (screenshots, call logs, transaction proof).

7. Submit the complaint and note the acknowledgment number.

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Step 5: Approach Your Local Cyber Police Station

• If the scam involved financial loss, file a written complaint with your nearest cyber police station.

• Attach:

  • ID proof (Aadhar, PAN).

  • Bank statements.

  • Screenshots of calls/chats.

  • Complaint acknowledgment number from cybercrime.gov.in.

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Step 6: Inform Your Bank (If Money Was Transferred)

• Contact your bank’s fraud department immediately.

• Share transaction ID and request an urgent hold on fraudulent transfers.

• Provide your bank with the cyber complaint acknowledgment for faster action.

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Step 7: Follow Up on Your Complaint

• Keep checking the status on cybercrime.gov.in using your acknowledgment number.

• Stay in touch with the Investigating Officer (IO) assigned to your case.

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Legal Provisions Used in Digital Arrest Fraud Cases

• Section 420 IPC – Cheating and fraud.

• Section 419 IPC – Impersonation.

• Section 384 IPC – Extortion.

• Section 66D IT Act – Cheating by impersonation using computer resources.

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Cyber Safety Tips to Avoid Digital Arrest Scams

• Remember: No police officer arrests people on WhatsApp/Skype calls.

• Never transfer money online to settle cases.

• Verify by calling your local police station directly.

• Educate family members, especially senior citizens, about such scams.

• Save 1930 helpline number for emergencies.

The Digital Arrest Scam is a serious cybercrime that relies on fear and deception. By knowing the steps to report it—1930 helpline, cybercrime.gov.in portal, cyber police station, and bank—you can act quickly and protect yourself and others. The faster you report, the higher the chance of saving your money and preventing further fraud.

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Disclaimer

This article is for educational and awareness purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, professional consultation, or solicitation. Victims of cybercrime should immediately call the 1930 helpline, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and consult a certified cybercrime advocate for case-specific guidance.