In a timely intervention, the Mulki police in Karnataka, aided by a vigilant bank manager, successfully prevented a massive digital arrest fraud attempt, saving an elderly couple from losing a staggering sum of Rs 84 lakh. The sophisticated scam, which unfolded on December 1, targeted senior citizens through intimidation and fake police credentials.
The Elaborate Digital Arrest Scam
According to the detailed police report, the potential victims were identified as 84-year-old Benedict Fernandes and his 71-year-old wife, Lilly Fernandes, residents of Damas Katte. The fraudsters initiated contact by phone, boldly posing as officers from the Uttar Pradesh CID (Criminal Investigation Department). Using this authoritative facade, the scammers weaved a complex narrative, accusing the elderly couple of involvement in serious illegal activities.
To amplify the fear and create a sense of urgency, the criminals then subjected the couple to what is known as a "digital arrest." This modern cybercrime tactic involves convincing the victim that they are under virtual police custody and must remain on a video call, often for hours, while the fraudsters orchestrate the financial theft. Isolated and terrified, the victims are prevented from contacting real family members or authorities.
How the Fraud Was Thwarted
The critical turn in this case came from an alert bank manager. When the distressed couple, acting under the fraudsters' relentless pressure, approached their bank to make the enormous transaction, the manager noticed clear signs of duress and confusion. Recognizing the hallmarks of a prevalent cyber fraud scheme, the manager immediately grew suspicious.
Instead of processing the transaction, the manager took the crucial step of stalling the process and discreetly alerting the Mulki police. This prompt action provided the police with the window they needed to intervene. Officers quickly arrived at the scene, spoke with the Fernandes couple, and confirmed their fears—they were indeed the targets of an elaborate impersonation and extortion racket.
Key Takeaways and Public Advisory
This incident underscores several alarming trends in cybercrime targeting India. Firstly, senior citizens are increasingly becoming prime targets for such scams due to their perceived vulnerability. Secondly, the modus operandi of using fake identities of law enforcement agencies to create panic is becoming more common.
The police have reiterated standard safety advisories for the public:
- No genuine police officer or government official will ever demand money over the phone or through video calls.
- Citizens should never share personal or banking details, including OTPs, with unknown callers.
- In case of any suspicious call claiming to be from law enforcement, immediately contact the nearest police station to verify the claim.
- Inform elderly family members about these common scams and encourage them to consult a trusted person before any financial decision under pressure.
The Mulki police have registered a case and are investigating to trace the perpetrators behind this Rs 84 lakh fraud attempt. The collaboration between an observant bank employee and responsive police forces proved to be the perfect defense against a well-planned digital offense, preventing a devastating financial loss for the elderly couple.
