What began as a routine phone call quickly turned into a carefully staged fraud that cost a city resident Rs 63.30 lakh. Cyber fraudsters allegedly posed as officials from the Data Protection Board of India and the Mumbai Police, threatening legal action and running a fake “inquiry” over video calls.
According to police, the victim transferred money from his own bank account and his wife’s accounts between February 7 and 16 after being placed under sustained fear and pressure. A complaint was registered on February 19 at the Central Division Cyber Crime Police Station.
The incident started when the victim received a call from an unknown number. The caller claimed that action was being initiated against him through the Data Protection Board and alleged that 20 mobile “loading” devices were registered in his name. He was warned of serious legal consequences if he did not cooperate with the so-called investigation.
Soon after, another person contacted the victim on WhatsApp from 2 different numbers, identifying himself as “Sudeep.” During a video call, the caller claimed to be a Mumbai Police officer and threatened strict legal action. Police said the fraudster appeared in a police uniform and used an official-looking background to make the call seem genuine.
Under psychological pressure, the victim transferred money in several instalments over a 10-day period. Funds were sent from his account at South Indian Bank and his wife’s accounts at Bank of Baroda. The amounts were routed to accounts in Yes Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, and ICICI Bank. In total, Rs 63.30 lakh was transferred.
Police said this type of fraud, known as a “digital arrest” scam, has been increasing in recent months. In such cases, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or regulatory officials and falsely claim that Aadhaar numbers, SIM cards, or bank accounts are linked to illegal activities. Victims are often kept on long video calls and instructed to transfer money for “verification” or “clearance.”
Investigators are reviewing transaction trails and have started the process to identify and freeze the recipient accounts. Authorities warned that no government agency conducts investigations or demands money transfers over phone or video calls.
Cyber experts said fear is the main weapon used by scammers. “Fear is their most powerful tool,” officials noted. Police have urged citizens to report suspicious calls immediately to the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or approach the nearest cyber crime police station. The investigation is ongoing.
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