Digital Arrest Scams in India: How to Protect Yourself from SIM Card Frauds

Byadmin

In recent times, many people across India have become targets of a new type of fraud known as a “digital arrest scam.” These scams often involve the misuse of SIM cards, where fraudsters pretend to be officials and scare innocent people into sending money. These tricks can affect anyone, no matter how old or young. That’s why it’s important to understand how these scams work and what you can do to stay safe.

This guide will explain everything in simple words so that you can protect yourself and your family. Also, if you face anything suspicious, remember that you can always report such cases using the Chakshu Portal.

What is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A digital arrest scam is a type of fraud where someone gets a call or message from a person pretending to be a police officer, CBI official, or someone from a government agency like TRAI. The caller claims that your SIM card is involved in illegal work like money laundering or drug activity. They scare you by saying you might get arrested or that a case has been filed against you.

Their goal is to make you panic. Then they ask you to send money or share personal details to “clear your name.” Sometimes they even make fake video calls wearing uniforms or sitting in a room that looks like a police station or court.

How Do These Scams Usually Happen?

Fraudsters follow a pattern in these types of scams. Here’s how it often works:

  1. You Get a Call: You might get a call from an unknown number. It can be a regular call or even a WhatsApp video call. The person says they are from a government agency.
  2. They Blame Your SIM Card: They say your SIM card was used in criminal work, like sending threats, money fraud, or drug cases.
  3. Fake Warnings: The caller will say there is an FIR (First Information Report) against you. They may even show fake documents or IDs on video calls.
  4. Pressure and Fear: You are told to stay on the call, not to tell anyone, and are pressured to transfer money to “settle” the case.
  5. They Ask for Money or Information: You are told to pay a fine or “verification fee” or to share your bank details, Aadhaar, or OTPs.

Real Cases That Happened in India

These scams are not rare. Many people have lost lakhs of rupees due to such tricks. Here are some real examples:

  • In Gujarat, a 75-year-old woman was scammed for ₹21 lakh after a caller claimed her SIM card was used for illegal work.
  • In Delhi, a 90-year-old retired man lost over ₹3.4 crore after fake officers said he was involved in financial crime.
  • Authorities also found a scam being run from Dubai using over 350 Indian SIM cards, and the fraud value was around ₹1,500 crore.

These are just a few of many cases. Scammers are using fear and confusion to trick people.

Warning Signs You Should Know

There are a few common signs that show you might be talking to a scammer:

  • You get a sudden call from someone claiming to be from the police or any government office.
  • They say your SIM card or mobile number was used in a crime.
  • They warn you not to disconnect the call or talk to anyone else.
  • You are told to pay money quickly to avoid arrest.
  • They ask for your personal information like Aadhaar, bank account details, or OTPs.

If you notice any of these signs, do not panic and do not follow their instructions.

How to Stay Safe from Digital Arrest Scams?

It is not difficult to protect yourself once you know what to look out for. Here are some simple steps:

  • Do Not Panic: Scammers want to scare you. Stay calm and don’t make any decision in a hurry.
  • Do Not Share Any Information: Never give out your bank details, OTP, Aadhaar number, or any document over the phone.
  • Hang Up and Verify: If you get such a call, hang up and contact your local police station or official helpline directly.
  • Talk to Your Family: Don’t stay silent. Tell your family or someone you trust. Scammers try to keep you alone so they can control you.
  • Report It Online: The Indian government has created the Chakshu Portal where you can report such frauds. It helps prevent others from falling into the same trap.

How Chakshu Portal Can Help You?

The Chakshu Portal is made to help people in India report fake calls, messages, and SIM-related frauds. It is simple to use and is supported by the Department of Telecommunications. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use it.

Here’s how you can use it:

  1. Go to Chakshu Portal.
  2. Click on “Report Suspected Fraud.”
  3. Fill in the details like phone number, message or call content, and submit it.

Once reported, authorities will review the case and take action.

This is a great step for anyone who wants to help stop frauds in India. You can even help your elders or neighbors report such things if they’re not comfortable doing it themselves.

Final Words

Scams involving digital arrest and SIM card frauds are increasing in India. These scammers are clever, but if you stay alert and informed, they cannot succeed.

Always remember:

  • Do not believe every call you receive.
  • Never send money to someone just because they said they are from the police.
  • Always double-check.
  • Report anything suspicious on the Chakshu Portal.

Being smart and alert is your best protection. Share this information with your family and friends so they don’t fall for such tricks.

Stay safe, and always use platforms like Chakshu Portal to report anything unusual.

 

Similar Posts