PM Narendra Modi Warns Citizens About ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam – Shares Key Tips to Avoid It
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently issued a significant warning to the public about a new type of online fraud known as the “Digital Arrest” scam. With the rise in digital transactions and online interactions, this type of scam has started targeting individuals across India, aiming to deceive people by instilling fear of legal consequences. Here’s what you need to know about the scam and the Prime Minister’s advice to avoid falling victim to it.
What is the Digital Arrest Scam?
The Digital Arrest scam is a deceptive tactic where fraudsters pose as law enforcement officers, legal authorities, or government officials. They claim that the target has committed a legal violation – often mentioning fake charges related to money laundering, tax evasion, or cybercrimes. Scammers often contact individuals through phone calls, emails, or even social media messages, saying that immediate action will be taken against them unless they pay a “fine” or “settlement fee.”
In some cases, the scammers even send fake documents or use forged government IDs to make their claims seem more legitimate. The primary goal is to scare the victim into transferring money or revealing sensitive personal information that could lead to further exploitation.
PM Modi’s Formula to Avoid Falling Prey to Digital Arrest Scams
Understanding the gravity of these scams, PM Modi has shared a straightforward approach to help citizens identify and avoid potential fraud. Here’s the formula he recommended:
- Stay Calm: Fraudsters often rely on creating a sense of urgency and fear. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of staying calm if contacted by someone making such claims. Taking a moment to assess the situation can help avoid panic-induced mistakes.
- Verify the Source: Always double-check the identity of the person or organization making the claim. Contact official numbers listed on government websites to confirm any legal action or demand. Never trust phone numbers or links provided by the caller or sender.
- Don’t Share Sensitive Information: PM Modi stressed the importance of safeguarding personal information, such as bank details, Aadhaar numbers, and OTPs. Legitimate government agencies will not ask for such details over the phone or online.
- Report Suspicious Calls and Messages: If you receive a call or message that seems suspicious, report it immediately to the local authorities or cybercrime helplines. The government has set up various resources to help victims of cyber fraud, including the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
- Spread Awareness: PM Modi encouraged citizens to share these tips with friends, family, and colleagues. Many people fall victim to scams because they lack awareness of these tactics.
How to Protect Yourself Online
While PM Modi’s advice can help steer clear of the Digital Arrest scam, it’s also essential to adopt other general practices to stay safe online:
Use strong passwords for all online accounts and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Be cautious of links in emails or messages from unknown senders. Phishing links often lead to websites that capture your personal information.
Install antivirus software and keep it updated to guard against malware.
Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements to catch any unauthorized transactions early.
The Rising Threat of Cyber Scams
India has seen a rapid increase in cyber scams with the expansion of digital services, especially after the pandemic. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential for citizens to stay alert. According to recent reports, cyber fraud cases have increased by over 40% in the last year, highlighting the need for public awareness and preventive measures.
To learn more about how to stay safe from digital fraud, you can visit the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or consult resources available on the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
By following PM Modi’s advice and staying informed, citizens can better protect themselves from falling victim to scams.