Maharashtra Physician Loses Rs 7 Crore in Sophisticated 'Digital Arrest' Cybercrime Scheme

Fraudsters impersonating law enforcement officials and a judge successfully deceived a senior physician in Maharashtra out of more than Rs 7 crore through an elaborate 'digital arrest' scam.

According to a report filed at the Ahilyanagar Cyber Police Station on Monday, the physician described how cybercriminals used counterfeit documentation supposedly from the Supreme Court, Enforcement Directorate, and police authorities to pressure him into transferring substantial funds.

Between September 7 and October 10, the doctor received numerous WhatsApp video calls from unidentified numbers. During one particular call, the perpetrators alleged that the doctor faced charges of illegal advertising, obscenity, and harassment, proceeding to conduct a mock interrogation.

The scammers then posed as a police officer and judge, declaring that the doctor was under what they termed a 'digital arrest'.

"You are under house arrest, and we are monitoring your every move. Your account contains black money. You could be arrested, and your children's future will be ruined," the criminals threatened during their interaction.

To enhance their credibility, the perpetrators sent fabricated orders, notices, and identification documents purportedly from the Supreme Court and central investigative agencies.

Under significant psychological pressure, the doctor transferred approximately Rs 7.17 crore to various bank accounts specified by the scammers.

Following this ordeal, the physician consulted with acquaintances and began questioning the legitimacy of these transactions. After examining the documents more carefully, he discovered they were fraudulent and immediately contacted cyber police to report the crime.

In his complaint, the doctor provided details of multiple phone numbers and accounts used by the perpetrators. Law enforcement has registered a case against several unidentified individuals, and the Cyber Crime Branch has launched an investigation to trace the numbers and financial accounts utilized in the scheme.