I received a fake 'digital arrest' call threatening me in Nainital; how do I protect myself?
RA Asked by Rajesh Verma from India
Quick Answer
The so-called digital arrest is a fraudulent scheme run by impersonators who pose as police, CBI or ED officers and there is no legal process called a digital arrest.
Detailed Legal Analysis
The so-called digital arrest is a fraudulent scheme run by impersonators who pose as police, CBI or ED officers and there is no legal process called a digital arrest. Do not transfer any money or share OTPs, and report the call to the Nainital cyber police and the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 immediately.
The offence is prosecuted under Sections 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 66D of the IT Act for cheating by personation of a public servant. The Uttarakhand High Court has issued guidelines that no coercive action can be taken through a virtual call, and any genuine summons is issued in writing.
Uttarakhand Rent Control Act 2011 on police procedure requires that any arrest follow the BNSS safeguards of informing the reason and allowing a lawyer. Preserve the call recording, the caller's number and any fake documents sent.
Warn elderly relatives in Nainital who are common targets of this scam.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.