Overview The Cyber Crime Wing of the Hyderabad Police has issued an advisory to alert citizens about the increasing prevalence of 'digital arrest' frauds . These scams involve fraudsters impersonating law enforcement officers, government officials, or courier company staff to extort money and personal information from unsuspecting victims. The advisory aims to raise awareness and provide guidance on how to identify and report such fraudulent activities. Key Developments Modus Operandi Impersonation: Scammers contact individuals via phone calls, WhatsApp messages, and video calls, falsely claiming to be officials from agencies like the police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) , Customs , Enforcement Directorate (ED) , Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) , Department of Telecommunications , National Investigation Agency (NIA) , or ATS . False Accusations: Victims are falsely accused of involvement in serious crimes such as money laundering, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, or even terrorism. Threats and Intimidation: Fraudsters threaten victims with immediate arrest, freezing of bank accounts, or legal action to create fear and panic. They may also threaten damage to the victim’s family reputation. Forged Documents: To appear legitimate, scammers send forged documents, including FIRs , non-bailable arrest warrants, and fake letters purportedly issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) . Police Clarification The police have categorically stated that there is no such concept as a 'digital arrest' . Law enforcement agencies do not arrest people over phone or video calls, nor do they demand money to clear names, stop arrests, or issue certificates. Any such threats are entirely fake and designed to exploit fear and lack of awareness. Reporting and Prevention National Cybercrime Helpline Victims and others are advised to preserve evidence such as call records, WhatsApp messages, emails, screenshots, transaction details, and app installation history. Suspected frauds should be reported without delay to the National Cybercrime Helpline by dialling 1930 or through the official portal cybercrime.gov.in . Preventive Measures Be wary of unsolicited calls or messages from unknown numbers claiming to be law enforcement or government officials. Never share personal or financial information over the phone or internet with unverified sources. Verify the identity of the caller or sender through official channels before taking any action. Report any suspicious activity to the National Cybercrime Helpline or local police. UPSC Relevance This advisory is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under GS3 (Security) , specifically concerning cyber security and economic offences. It also touches upon GS2 (Governance) , related to citizen grievance redressal and the role of government agencies in maintaining law and order. Understanding the nature of cybercrimes and the mechanisms for reporting them is crucial for aspirants. Important Facts Date of Advisory: January 07, 2026 Issuing Authority: Cyber Crime Wing, Hyderabad Police Helpline Number: 1930 (National Cybercrime Helpline) Reporting Portal: cybercrime.gov.in