The victim received a WhatsApp video call from an unknown number.
New Delhi: The demon of “Digital arrest” cases seems to be only growing stronger despite nationwide awareness campaigns as in the latest case reported from Bengaluru, a 68-year-old senior citizen fell prey to the scam and lost Rs 1.94 crore from his fixed deposit.
The incident occurred on November 30 when the victim received a WhatsApp video call from an unknown number. As he received the call, the caller introduced himself as an officer from the Mumbai crime branch. Also, his surroundings resembled a police station and he himself was donning a uniform that created a false sense of a legitimate call. Then, he allegedly accused the victim of involvement in a high-profile money laundering case involving Naresh Goyal, the founder of Jet Airways, reports Deccan Herald.
Also the caller’s tone was sounding professional. This was enough to intimidate the victim and he fell into the trap.
The caller claimed that the investigation had uncovered 247 confiscated ATM cards, one of which supposedly belonged to the victim. He then accused him of receiving a cut from Naresh Goyal and linked him directly to the alleged crime.
The caller overwhelmed the senior citizen and created fear and confusion. He ordered the man to report to the crime branch for interrogation. After taking full control of the situation, the caller suggested an alternative to the victim which included a “digital arrest,” which required him to remain at home while they conducted their so-called investigation.
As part of their fake investigation, the caller compelled the victim into providing his bank details. Over a period of seven days, they coerced him into transferring Rs 1.94 crore in multiple installments. They instructed him to remain silent and not discuss the matter with anyone.
However, the scam was busted when the victim shared his ordeal with his daughter, who realized he had been duped. She immediately took him to the police to file a complaint after which a case was initially registered at a police station in Bengaluru.
