In a shocking case that highlights the growing sophistication of cyber criminals, a 71-year-old woman returning from Saudi Arabia became trapped in a nightmarish 'digital arrest' that lasted for 26 agonizing days, resulting in the loss of ₹83 lakh and severe psychological trauma.
The Beginning of the Digital Nightmare
The harrowing ordeal began when the elderly Bengaluru resident received a phone call from individuals claiming to be law enforcement officials. The fraudsters presented convincing credentials and fabricated serious allegations against the woman, creating an atmosphere of fear and urgency that would persist for nearly a month.
How the 'Digital Arrest' Unfolded
The scammers employed sophisticated psychological tactics to maintain control over their victim:
- Continuous video calls that created a false sense of surveillance and confinement
- Threats of legal action and arrest if she disconnected communication
- Fabricated documents and official-looking credentials to establish credibility
- Isolation tactics preventing the victim from contacting family or real authorities
The Financial Drain and Psychological Toll
Over the 26-day period, the perpetrators systematically drained the woman's life savings, extracting a staggering ₹83 lakh through various transactions. The constant psychological pressure and fear of legal consequences took a severe toll on the senior citizen's mental health, leaving her traumatized long after the financial damage was done.
A Growing Trend in Cyber Crime
This case represents an alarming evolution in digital fraud techniques, where criminals use technology to create virtual prisons rather than physical ones. The 'digital arrest' method allows scammers to maintain prolonged control over victims while minimizing the risk of physical detection.
Protection Against Digital Kidnapping
Cyber security experts recommend several precautions:
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be law enforcement through official channels
- Never share personal or financial information during unsolicited calls
- Maintain communication with family members about suspicious contacts
- Contact local police cyber cells immediately if you suspect fraudulent activity
- Enable two-factor authentication on all financial accounts
The Bengaluru police cyber crime unit has launched an investigation into this sophisticated fraud case, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness about evolving digital threats targeting vulnerable citizens.
