Digital arrest scam: elderly businessman duped of ₹15 crore in Belagavi

Belagavi ; In a shocking case of cyber fraud, an elderly businessman from the district has been duped of a staggering ₹15 crore by fraudsters using the now-emerging “digital arrest” scam tactic. The incident has raised serious concerns over the growing sophistication of cybercrime targeting senior citizens.

According to police, the accused contacted the victim through a video call, posing as officials from law enforcement agencies. They falsely claimed that the businessman’s bank account was linked to a money laundering case and that he was under “digital arrest,” a term increasingly used by cybercriminals to create fear and urgency.

The fraudsters reportedly warned the victim that he could face immediate legal consequences, including arrest, unless he cooperated with the so-called investigation. To gain his trust, they instructed him to transfer funds to multiple “secure” accounts for verification purposes, assuring him that the money would be returned once the inquiry was completed.

Fearing legal trouble and believing the claims to be genuine, the businessman complied. Over a period of time, he transferred funds in multiple transactions, eventually losing ₹15 crore. The fraud came to light only after the scammers abruptly cut off all communication, prompting the victim to suspect foul play.

The businessman approached the Cyber, Economic and Narcotics (CEN) police station in Belagavi on March 18 and lodged a formal complaint. Acting swiftly, the police launched an investigation and managed to freeze several bank accounts linked to the accused. Officials confirmed that around ₹90 lakh has been successfully blocked, offering a partial recovery in the case.

Police sources said a special team has been constituted to trace and apprehend the culprits, who are believed to be part of an organized cybercrime network operating across states, or even internationally.

Authorities have also revealed that this is not an isolated incident. In the past one month alone, at least three senior citizens in the region have fallen victim to similar “digital arrest” scams. The pattern indicates a targeted approach by fraudsters, who prey on fear and lack of digital awareness among elderly individuals.

Cybercrime experts have warned that such scams are becoming increasingly common, with criminals impersonating officials from agencies like the police, CBI, or RBI to manipulate victims. They often use video calls, fake documents, and threatening language to create panic.

Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and not fall prey to such tactics. Officials emphasized that no law enforcement agency conducts investigations or arrests individuals via video calls, nor do they ask citizens to transfer money for verification.

Citizens, especially senior individuals, have been advised to verify such claims immediately with local police and avoid sharing personal or banking details with unknown callers.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as police intensify efforts to crack the case.