🚨 Ex-Soldier in Himachal Pradesh Duped of ₹98 Lakh in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam

Shimla: In a shocking case of cyber fraud, a retired soldier from Himachal Pradesh lost nearly ₹98 lakh after being trapped in a sophisticated “digital arrest” scam, police officials said. The fraudsters allegedly posed as law enforcement officials and threatened the victim with legal action, forcing him to transfer large sums of money over several days.

According to the police, the scammers contacted the ex-serviceman and falsely claimed that a SIM card had been illegally issued in his name and was being used in a money laundering case. The fraudsters further told him that he was under investigation and could be “digitally arrested” unless he cooperated with the authorities.

To make the story believable, the criminals reportedly impersonated officials from government agencies and conducted video calls, warning the victim not to inform anyone about the investigation. Out of fear and confusion, the retired soldier followed their instructions and transferred ₹98 lakh to multiple bank accounts provided by the scammers.

After realizing that he had been cheated, the victim approached the cybercrime authorities and filed a complaint. Police have launched an investigation and are trying to trace the bank accounts and digital trails used by the fraudsters.

Officials have once again warned the public about the growing number of digital arrest scams, where criminals impersonate police or government officers to threaten victims with fake legal cases. Citizens are advised not to transfer money or share personal information during such calls and to immediately report suspicious communication to the cybercrime helpline.

Authorities also urged people, especially senior citizens and retired individuals, to stay alert and verify any claims made by callers claiming to be from government departments. Investigators are currently working to identify the suspects involved in the scam.