As India accelerates towards a digital-first economy, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has taken a proactive step to educate citizens about an alarming new cybercrime trend, the ‘Digital Arrest’ fraud. The initiative aims to empower users with the awareness needed to identify and report such scams, ensuring a safer digital payments ecosystem for all.
What is ‘Digital Arrest’?
‘Digital Arrest’ scams involve fraudsters posing as police or government officials to manipulate victims into sharing personal data or transferring money. The scammers often fabricate serious legal allegations like money laundering or tax evasion, using phone and video calls to intimidate victims.
By creating a fake environment, complete with uniforms, official backdrops, and government logos, these criminals instill fear and urgency, coercing people into making payments or revealing sensitive information.
Spot the Signs: How to Identify a Digital Arrest Scam
- Unexpected Contact: Be cautious of sudden calls claiming to be from police, CBI, income tax, or customs departments.
- Fear and Urgency: Scammers often threaten immediate arrest or legal action to pressure quick compliance.
- Request for Money or Data: Real government authorities will never demand payments or personal details via calls or video chats.
How to Stay Protected
- Pause and Verify: Don’t respond in panic. Verify the caller’s identity through official sources.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Dial the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or visit the DoT’s Sanchar Saathi portal
- Record and Report: Keep evidence like screenshots or call logs to assist authorities.
NPCI’s Ongoing Commitment
As the umbrella organisation behind India’s retail payment systems, including UPI, RuPay, IMPS, NETC, AePS, and e-RUPI, NPCI continues to play a pivotal role in promoting secure, inclusive, and tech-driven financial services.
Backed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), NPCI’s initiatives reflect its larger mission: to build a safe and trusted digital payment environment for every Indian.
