CBI Impersonation Scam — Here’s How to Protect Yourself
A chilling new wave of cybercrime is sweeping across the country, with sophisticated criminal networks now brazenly impersonating CBI officials to threaten and extort money from unsuspecting citizens. The Central Bureau of Investigation has issued a nationwide alert following a sharp rise in these alarming impersonation scams, delivered through WhatsApp, deepfake video calls, and spoofed official numbers.
The Anatomy of a Modern-Day Scare Tactic
Imagine receiving a video call from a stern official in a CBI uniform, a WhatsApp message with what looks like a legitimate arrest warrant bearing the agency’s seal, or a call where the voice sounds uncannily like a senior officer. This is no longer a plot from a thriller—it’s the new reality.
Organised criminal groups are using forged documents with copied logos and forged signatures, backed by AI-generated letterheads and deepfake audio or video, to create an illusion of terrifying legitimacy. Victims are told their Aadhaar or bank account is linked to crimes and are threatened with immediate arrest unless they pay to “settle” the fictitious case.
“This is Organised Cyber-Extortion”
As per a cybercrime investigator, “These scams are among the most psychologically manipulative we are witnessing,” warned the expert. “Criminals are weaponizing the trusted reputation of our national agencies to induce pure panic. Our analysis shows victims, driven solely by fear, often lose money within minutes.”
He confirmed that these interstate and international networks are actively being tracked, with fraudsters using spoofed numbers showing “CBI Head Office” and AI tools to fabricate entire documents.
Official Protocol: What the CBI Will NEVER Do
Amid the surge, the CBI has issued a critical clarification to every citizen:
· ❌ They will NEVER send summons or arrest notices via WhatsApp or email.
· ❌ They will NEVER demand money or sensitive bank details over the phone.
· ❌ They will NEVER threaten arrest through a call or message.
Who is Being Targeted?
Authorities report that scammers are preying on the most vulnerable: senior citizens, women living alone, students, and professionals with limited digital literacy. The financial losses nationwide are already estimated to be in the crores, highlighting the vast scale of this operation.
Your Action Plan: How to Stay Safe
- Hang Up & Verify: If you receive such a call, disconnect immediately. Do not engage.
- Know the Official Channel: The CBI does not operate this way. Verify any concern by contacting your local police station or using only official contact numbers from the CBI’s genuine website.
- Report Immediately: Preserve screenshots, call records, and details. Report the incident without delay to:
· The National Cyber Helpline: 1930
· The official portal: www.cybercrime.gov.in
The Bottom Line
As cybercriminals integrate AI and deepfakes into their scams, awareness is your strongest firewall. Spread the word—especially to those most at risk. No legitimate officer will ever demand money online. In this digital age, vigilance, skepticism, and prompt reporting are our most powerful tools for protection.
Stay alert. Verify. Report.
