Chittoor police warn public against ‘digital arrest’ scams
The Chittoor district police have cautioned the public against ‘digital arrest’ scams—a cyber fraud technique in which criminals impersonate law enforcement agencies to extort money
The Chittoor district police have cautioned the public against ‘digital arrest’ scams—a cyber fraud technique in which criminals impersonate law enforcement agencies to extort money from victims and intimidate them. Speaking to the media here on Monday (July 20, 2026), Superintendent of Police Tushar Dudi said that gangs involved in cyber crimes were actively using phone calls, video calls, and messages to create panic among the public and to force them into sharing their personal information.
“Fraudsters introduce themselves as officials from agencies such as the police, CBI, Enforcement Directorate and claim that the victim’s Aadhaar number, bank account or mobile connection has been linked to illegal activities. Victims are often told that a criminal case has been registered against them and are pressured to remain online for longer hours, claiming they are under digital arrest,” the SP said. The SP clarified that no official from the Police Department or investigating agencies would carry out arrests digitally, such as video or audio calls.
He asked the people to treat such communications as completely fraudulent and avoid acting under pressure. Dudi said that cyber criminals often seek bank account details, passwords, and one-time passwords before coercing victims into transferring money. He warned the people that they should never share information with unknown callers and verify the credentials of anyone claiming to
represent a government agency. “The public should stay away from transferring money based on threats received over the phone or video calls and should immediately consult family members or police if they receive suspicious communications,” the SP said, adding that the victims should immediately contact the cybercrime helpline 1930 or approach the nearest police station without delay.
The BriefWire