An elderly businessman from Belagavi has reportedly been defrauded of ₹15 crore in a sophisticated cybercrime involving a so-called “digital arrest,” police said on Saturday.
The case has been registered at the Belagavi City Cyber, Economic and Narcotics (CEN) Police Station. During the initial phase of the investigation, authorities have frozen several bank accounts linked to the accused, including one holding ₹90 lakh, believed to be part of the siphoned funds.
Police Commissioner Borse Bhushan Rao Gulabrao has formed a dedicated team to track down and apprehend those responsible for the fraud.
According to investigators, the victim was contacted via a video call by individuals posing as officials. They falsely informed him that his bank account had been flagged in connection with a money laundering case and warned of imminent legal consequences.
Under the pretext of an ongoing “investigation,” the fraudsters coerced the businessman into transferring funds to multiple bank accounts for “verification.” He was assured that the money would be refunded once the process was complete. Acting under fear and pressure, the victim transferred large sums in multiple transactions, eventually losing ₹15 crore.
What to Do If You Receive Such a Call
- Do not panic: Scammers rely on fear tactics like “arrest,” “legal action,” or “account freeze” to pressure victims.
- Never transfer money for ‘verification’: No legitimate authority will ask you to move funds to another account for investigation.
- Verify independently: Disconnect the call and contact your bank or the police using official numbers.
- Avoid sharing personal details: Do not disclose bank details, OTPs, Aadhaar, or PAN information.
- Do not stay on video calls under pressure: Claims of “digital arrest” are fake—no such legal procedure exists.
- Report immediately: Call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
- Inform your bank quickly: Early reporting can help freeze transactions and recover funds.
Authorities have reiterated the need for heightened public awareness, noting a rise in such high-value cyber frauds targeting individuals through intimidation and impersonation.