In a disturbing incident in Noida, a family of three was subjected to a novel form of cyber fraud known as 'digital arrest,' leading to a financial loss exceeding ₹1 crore. The perpetrators, posing as government officials, manipulated the family into believing they were under investigation for possessing illegal international parcels containing banned substances.

This tactic is part of a growing trend where cybercriminals impersonate law enforcement agencies to extort money from unsuspecting individuals.

The fraudsters initiated contact with the family, claiming to be officials from agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or customs. They informed the family that their names were linked to international shipments containing illicit drugs, threatening immediate arrest unless a substantial sum was paid to clear their names.

This incident highlights the alarming rise of 'digital arrest' scams, where cybercriminals exploit the fear of legal consequences to extort money. Such scams often involve sophisticated methods, including fake video calls and fabricated legal documents, making it challenging for victims to discern the authenticity of the claims.

Authorities have been alerted to this modus operandi and are working to track down the culprits. They advise the public to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited communications from individuals claiming to be law enforcement officials, especially when they demand immediate payment. It's crucial to verify the authenticity of such claims through official channels before taking any action.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of cybercrime and the need for increased awareness and caution among the public to prevent falling victim to such deceptive schemes.