Cyber scams targeting retirees in Himachal: A growing concern as fraudsters exploit digital fear

Cyber scams are increasingly plaguing Himachal Pradesh, with retired officers and government employees becoming primary targets of a new type of fraud known as “digital arrest.” In these scams, cybercriminals impersonate government officials and falsely claim that their victims have been “digitally arrested” for alleged offenses. They demand hefty sums of money, threatening to seize the victims’ assets if they fail to comply.

In a recent case, a retired officer from Hamirpur district was duped out of Rs 73 lakh by fraudsters who convinced him that he was under a digital arrest and needed to pay up to resolve the matter. Similarly, a retired executive engineer from Mandi district lost Rs 20 lakh in a scam involving promises of cheap shares and IPOs via social media.

According to Cyber Police Station Mandi, four such cases were reported , resulting in a total loss of Rs 1.97 crore. Victims were tricked into investing in fake stock market schemes and share purchases. Officials of Cyber Police have emphasized the importance of public awareness in preventing these scams, stating that investigations into how criminals collect personal information are still underway. Only after the culprits are apprehended will we fully understand their tactics.

These scams often involve threats of false digital arrests for money laundering, illegal transactions, or drug-related crimes. Victims are told that their money will be withheld by government agencies unless they pay a fine to clear their name. Once the money is transferred, however, it is never returned.

Common Tactics in Digital Arrest Scams:

Fake Legal Issues: Victims are falsely accused of involvement in illegal activities, such as fraud or drug-related offenses, and are pressured to pay to avoid further legal consequences.

Money Laundering Allegations: Fraudsters claim that the victim’s bank transactions are under scrutiny for money laundering, forcing them to transfer funds to resolve the issue.

Family Threats: Scammers often claim that a close relative, usually a son, has been arrested and demand money to keep the matter quiet.

False FIRs: Victims are told that fake FIRs have been registered against them in other locations, and they are coerced into paying to avoid arrest.

To protect oneself from falling victim to such scams, the police advise people to be skeptical of promises of high returns or claims of digital arrest. Citizens should never share personal details over the phone or on social media. If contacted by a suspected fraudster, individuals are urged to immediately call the Cyber Crime helpline @ 1930 and report the incident. Authorities have clarified that no legitimate government agency conducts inquiries online or asks for bank details via mobile.

As cybercrime cases continue to rise, the cyber police have ramped up their investigations and are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly.