Sophisticated Digital Arrest Fraud Targets Elderly Retired Official in Pune
In a disturbing case of cyber deception, criminals posing as high-ranking police officials successfully defrauded an 80-year-old retired state government employee of Rs 19 lakh in Pune. The elaborate scam, which unfolded in November last year, involved impersonation of both the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General of Police and Mumbai crime branch personnel.
How the Elaborate Scam Unfolded
The victim first received an unsolicited call in November from someone claiming to be a Mumbai crime branch official. The fraudster informed the elderly man that 247 debit cards had been obtained using his Aadhaar details, allegedly being used to cheat numerous people. The caller went further, accusing the retired official of being part of a criminal gang involved in money laundering activities.
To add credibility to their claims, the cybercriminals conducted a video call with the victim, during which they shared what appeared to be an Enforcement Directorate notice. They claimed a formal case had been registered against the elderly man and provided him with a copy of this fabricated document. The fraudsters emphasized that they possessed comprehensive details about the victim's supposed criminal network.
Threats and False Promises
The perpetrators issued a stern warning, threatening immediate arrest if the victim discussed the matter with family or friends. This intimidation tactic effectively isolated the elderly man, preventing him from seeking verification or assistance during the critical early stages of the scam.
Subsequently, the victim received another call, this time from someone claiming to be a DGP-level officer with the Anti-Corruption Bureau. This second impersonator offered protection from arrest, instructing the retired official to transfer money to what he called the 'Supreme Court Fund'. After obtaining details of the victim's bank balance, the bogus officer directed him to transfer Rs 19 lakh to a specified bank account.
The fraudster provided false assurance that the funds would be returned after verification procedures were completed, creating a false sense of security for the vulnerable victim.
Police Investigation Underway
When the promised refund failed to materialize, the elderly victim finally confided in his son, who promptly filed an online complaint with authorities. Following preliminary investigations, the Dighi police registered a formal case on Wednesday.
Sub-inspector Dipak Rahane of Dighi police station confirmed the details of the complaint and stated that investigations are actively ongoing. The case highlights the sophisticated methods employed by cybercriminals who exploit the authority associated with law enforcement positions to target vulnerable individuals.
Growing Concern Over Digital Arrest Frauds
This incident represents a particularly egregious example of digital arrest frauds that have been increasing across India. Such scams typically involve:
- Impersonation of law enforcement or government officials
- False accusations of criminal involvement
- Threats of immediate arrest
- Demands for money transfers to avoid legal consequences
- Isolation of victims through intimidation
The Pune case demonstrates how cybercriminals are refining their techniques, using multiple layers of deception and leveraging the credibility of high-ranking positions to maximize their fraudulent gains. Authorities continue to warn citizens about such sophisticated scams and emphasize the importance of verifying any unexpected legal claims through official channels before taking action or transferring funds.
