Cyber Scammers Go Beyond Digital Arrests: Rob You, Then Run Fraud Under Your Name — Here's How to Stay Safe

Digital arrest scams are evolving rapidly — cybercriminals are now misusing bank accounts of young and low-income individuals to launder stolen money. Learn how the fraud works and how to protect yourself.

In a disturbing new trend, cybercriminals in India are taking scams to the next level by not just robbing people during fake "digital arrests," but by using the victims' own identities and bank accounts to further their fraud. These scammers are increasingly targeting young individuals and those from low-income backgrounds, tricking them into unknowingly becoming part of illegal money laundering networks — commonly known as "mule accounts."

The alarming rise in such cyber fraud cases has caught the attention of law enforcement agencies across multiple states. So how exactly do these scams work, and more importantly, how can you protect yourself?

What Is a Digital Arrest Scam?

The term "digital arrest" refers to a method where cybercriminals pose as law enforcement officials or government agents over video calls and scare unsuspecting individuals into revealing sensitive personal and banking information. Claiming that the person is under investigation or has committed a crime, the fraudsters create panic and urgency — leading victims to transfer money or share OTPs and account details.

Once they have access, scammers empty the bank account within minutes.

₹6 Crore Stolen Across 28 Bank Accounts

In a shocking case reported by The Indian Express, a 44-year-old advertising executive was tricked via video call into handing over his banking details. What began in a luxury apartment in Gurugram quickly escalated into a nationwide scam involving over 15 states.

In total, scammers siphoned off nearly ₹6 crore from 28 different bank accounts. The stolen money was then swiftly moved to 141 separate bank accounts, many of them identified as mule accounts. By the time victims realize something is wrong, the fraudsters have already withdrawn the money — often in cash — making recovery extremely difficult.

Who Are the Targets?

Investigations reveal that cybercriminals are specifically targeting young adults, students, and those with limited incomes. They exploit their financial vulnerabilities and often lure them with fake job offers or quick money-making schemes.

Unknowingly, these individuals allow access to their bank accounts — or open new accounts under their names — which are then used by fraudsters to move stolen funds. Most victims have no idea their accounts are part of a massive illegal operation.

Shockingly, in many cases, the very people responsible for monitoring financial transactions either ignore the suspicious activity or are themselves complicit in the fraud.

What Are Mule Accounts?

A mule account is a bank account used by cybercriminals to launder stolen or illegal money. These accounts may belong to real people who have unknowingly given access, or they may be entirely fake with forged documentation.

Once a scam is carried out, the stolen money is quickly transferred across several mule accounts to cover its trail. This makes tracking the origin of the funds extremely difficult for the authorities. In many cases, even the registered addresses of these accounts are fake, further complicating investigations.

How to Protect Yourself

Here are a few essential tips to avoid becoming a victim or a mule in cyber scams:

• Never share banking details with unknown callers or anyone posing as a government official.

• Ignore unsolicited video calls from unknown numbers. If someone claims you are under investigation, verify with local police.

• Be cautious of job offers that ask for your bank details or ask you to open an account.

• Monitor your account activity regularly and report any suspicious transactions immediately.

• Educate young family members about the risks of becoming a "money mule" unknowingly.

Final Thoughts

As India’s digital economy grows, so does the complexity of cybercrime. The “digital arrest” scam is just one of many tactics fraudsters are using to manipulate and exploit people. What’s more disturbing is that they’re turning victims into unwilling accomplices by using their names and bank accounts to continue their illegal operations.

Raising awareness, strengthening digital literacy, and staying vigilant are crucial in fighting back. Law enforcement agencies are stepping up efforts, but it is equally important that individuals understand how these scams work and learn how to stay safe in the digital age.