Mumbai Police unveils 24×7 helpline numbers for victims as ‘digital arrest’ scam cases surge

To tackle the rising threat of digital arrest scams, Mumbai Police has launched two dedicated helpline numbers 7715004444 and 7400086666 to support individuals targeted by such fraud. These helplines will operate 24×7, providing round-the-clock assistance, guidance, and reassurance to potential victims, helping them avoid financial loss and report suspicious calls or activities without delay, an official confirmed on Wednesday.

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Responding to a surge in digital arrest fraud cases over the past few years, Mumbai Police launched this initiative to protect the public. In these scams, cybercriminals pose as law enforcement or government officials, tricking victims into believing they are under investigation and coercing them to transfer money or reveal sensitive information, the official explained.

If they receive any such call, people should contact the helpline numbers, the police official said. In case of an emergency, Mumbai Police can also send their teams to the victim’s place, he added.

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In these scams, fraudsters call individuals while posing as officials from law enforcement agencies such as the police, CBI, Enforcement Directorate, or Customs. They claim the victim’s mobile number, Aadhaar, or bank account has been used for money laundering or other illegal activities, the official explained. They tell the person they are under “digital arrest” and instruct them not to disconnect the call, leave the room, or contact anyone including the police. The fraudsters then pressure the victim to transfer money to specific bank accounts. Out of fear, many people comply with these instructions and end up losing money to cybercriminals, some of whom operate from outside India.