In a shocking case that highlights the growing sophistication of cyber criminals, an elderly couple residing in South Delhi's upscale Greater Kailash neighbourhood was defrauded of a staggering Rs 14 crore. The elaborate con involved perpetrators impersonating officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), who subjected the victims to a terrifying 'digital arrest'.
The Deceptive Call and False Accusations
The ordeal began on December 24, 2025, when the 77-year-old woman, a retired doctor, received a phone call from an unidentified individual claiming to be a TRAI official. The caller levelled serious allegations against her, stating that her mobile number had been used to make offensive and abusive calls. The accusations escalated rapidly, with the fraudster further claiming she was holding black money and was involved in extensive money-laundering activities.
Police reports indicate that the couple, both doctors who had returned from the United States and had been living in Greater Kailash since 2016, were specifically targeted. With their children settled abroad, the accused allegedly exploited their relatively isolated lifestyle. The fraudsters used relentless psychological pressure, repeatedly threatening the couple with immediate arrest and severe legal consequences.
The Mechanics of the 'Digital Arrest'
The scam is a classic example of a 'digital arrest' or 'virtual kidnapping' scheme. The criminals forced the elderly couple to remain on near-continuous phone and video calls, creating an atmosphere of perpetual fear and surveillance. This tactic isolated them from seeking outside help or verifying the claims with real authorities.
Acting under this immense pressure, the complainant was provided with multiple bank account details by the callers. She was persuaded that transferring funds was the only way to 'clear' her name and avoid legal action. Over the following days, a total of Rs 14 crore was transferred to the accounts specified by the fraudsters.
Discovery and Police Action
The fraud finally came to light when the threatening calls abruptly stopped on January 9, 2026. This silence prompted the traumatised couple to approach the authorities. They immediately reported the massive financial crime to the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930.
Following their complaint, an electronic First Information Report (e-FIR) was lodged on Saturday, January 11, 2026. The cybercrime unit of the Delhi Police has now initiated a full-scale investigation into the matter. Authorities are working to trace the digital footprint of the criminals and track the flow of the siphoned funds.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by senior citizens, especially those living alone. Cybercriminals are increasingly using official-sounding designations and sophisticated fear tactics to exploit victims. The police urge the public to verify any such claims directly with the concerned government departments through official channels and never share personal or financial details over unsolicited calls.
