A senior official from the revenue department in Nagpur has become the latest victim of a sophisticated cyber fraud, losing a staggering sum of ₹36 lakh to criminals impersonating Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) officers. The elaborate con involved the use of video calls to subject the deputy registrar-rank official to a terrifying 'digital arrest' based on fabricated charges.
The Anatomy of a 'Digital Arrest' Scam
The ordeal began when the official received communication from individuals claiming to be ATS officers. Through a series of video calls, the fraudsters created a high-pressure environment of fear and urgency. They levelled serious but entirely false allegations against the official, accusing him of having links to terrorist activities and engaging in anti-government actions.
Threatening him with severe legal consequences and arrest, the scammers used psychological tactics to break down his resistance. Under this sustained pressure and the fear of imminent legal action, the official complied with their demands. He proceeded to transfer a total of ₹36 lakh from his accounts to the bank details provided by the impersonators.
Realisation and Police Action
It was only after the transactions were completed that the official, upon reflection, realised he had been deceived. The threats, the charges, and the supposed ATS officers were all part of an intricate plot to extort money. Once the deception became clear, he immediately approached the police authorities to report the crime.
A formal case has been registered at the Nagpur cyber police station. The complaint has been filed under the relevant sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act along with charges of cheating. An investigation is now underway to track the digital footprints of the scammers and the money trail.
A Growing Menace of Impersonation Frauds
This incident highlights a dangerous new trend in cybercrime where the authority of law enforcement agencies is misused to intimidate and rob citizens. The 'digital arrest' scam preys on fear and a lack of immediate verification. Experts advise the public to remember that no legitimate law enforcement agency will demand money over phone or video calls to settle legal matters or avoid arrest.
If anyone receives such a call, they should immediately disconnect and directly contact the nearest police station or the official helpline number to verify the claims. The Nagpur case serves as a stark reminder to remain vigilant against such technologically enabled impersonation tactics.
