Stay Alert: Bengaluru Police Warn Against ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams
What Are ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams?
Recently, Bengaluru’s police commissioner, B. Dayananda, has issued an urgent advisory for residents to remain vigilant against a rising trend of ‘digital arrest’ scams. These scams involve fraudsters impersonating police or court officials, armed with fake arrest warrants, to extort money from unsuspecting individuals.
The Warning from Noida
In light of these alarming reports, apartment owners’ associations in Noida have circulated warnings about the scam. A recent incident highlighted in the Times of India detailed how a man posing as a court official attempted to enter an apartment complex claiming to have an arrest warrant for a resident. When security guards denied him entry, he returned with accomplices masquerading as police officials.
Understanding ‘Digital Arrest’
Commissioner Dayananda clarified that there is no legal basis for ‘digital arrests’ in India. “Police actions are strictly based on legal provisions,” he emphasized. If someone is arrested, they must be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours. Fraudsters, however, exploit this concept, leading to significant financial losses for victims. One recent case involved a software engineer losing ₹11.8 crore to such a scam.
How to Protect Yourself
To safeguard against these scams, residents are advised to:
- Conduct thorough security checks for all visitors.
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a government official.
- Report suspicious individuals to Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs).
- Avoid opening doors to strangers.
- Consider installing video doorbells for added security.
Stay Informed and Protected
As we navigate this digital age, it’s crucial to stay informed about such scams. For more tips and deals on security solutions, visit Looffers.com. Remember, your safety is paramount!
