Mumbai Police Launch 24×7 Helplines to Fight Rise in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams Targeting Citizens

Mumbai Police has launched two helpline numbers to aid victims of the rising ‘digital arrest’ scam, where crooks pose as officials and blackmail money. Citizens requested to report within 2 hours to optimize chances of recovery.

Mumbai | April 17, 2025 — In a bold step to counter the growing menace of cyber fraud, the Mumbai Police on Wednesday introduced two round-the-clock helplines to assist victims of the infamous ‘digital arrest‘ scam. The helpline numbers  7715004444 and 7400086666  will offer instant assistance to victims targeted by scammers who impersonate law enforcement officials.

As per a police officer cited by news agency PTI, cases of digital arrest scams have increased in recent years, leading to a sense of urgency from the cybercrime department.

What Is a ‘Digital Arrest’?

The scam involves fraudsters impersonating officials from agencies like the Police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), or Customs. Victims are falsely accused of involvement in criminal activities such as money laundering or smuggling, often with claims that their Aadhaar number, mobile connection, or bank account has been misused.

Victims are informed that they are under a so-called digital arrest — a made-up term employed by scammers to isolate their victims. They’re instructed not to hang up the call, leave the house, or call anyone — including the real police. Under psychological duress and threat of legal action, many end up sending large amounts of money to the scammers.

Modus Operandi of Scammers

• Initial Contact: Victim receives a call claiming a parcel linked to them contains illegal items such as drugs or fake documents.

• False Allegations: Sometimes, the caller says a relative is in custody over a crime.

• Monetary Demands: To “resolve” the case, the fraudster demands money.

• Video Surveillance: Victims are placed on continuous video calls under the threat of “digital arrest.”

• Realistic Setup: Scammers use fake studios mimicking police stations or government offices and wear uniforms to appear convincing.

Golden Hour Rule: Act Fast

Mumbai Police has also emphasized reporting such crimes within two hours of a transaction. Early reporting  during what is called the golden hours  significantly enhances the possibility of tracing and retrieving the transferred money.

Help Is Just a Call Away

The police also advise the citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious calls at once to the helplines. On emergency grounds, the department also remains prepared to send teams directly to the site of a victim for help.

“These scams are advanced and psychologically manipulative. We are keen on assisting the victims and tackling the culprits,” said an official of the Mumbai Police.

While cybercriminals are constantly refining their methods, Mumbai Police’s initiative is the beacon of hope that keeps citizens afloat in the tide of fear and deceit.