Srinagar- An elderly couple from Srinagar has fallen victim to a cyber fraud, losing ₹48 lakh after being trapped in a ‘digital arrest’ scam.

According to officials, the couple was approached through a WhatsApp video call. The callers claimed they were officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation and said they were probing the couple for alleged involvement in a major financial fraud. The fraudsters also projected themselves as officials of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.

The callers falsely accused the couple of involvement in a financial fraud case allegedly under CBI investigation. They sent fake orders purportedly issued by the CBI and TRAI. The fraudsters threatened to freeze the couple’s bank accounts and seize their property.

The couple was forced to remain under continuous video surveillance for several days. They were monitored even while using the washroom. They were also forbidden from leaving their house without permission.

Under severe psychological pressure, the couple transferred Rs 48.00 lakh to the fraudsters.

The Cyber Crime Investigation Centre for Excellence, Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has repeatedly advised the public that there is no such thing as digital arrest. Any person facing such a situation should immediately recognize it as a fraud and report the matter on helpline number 1930 or on www.cybercrime.gov.in.

It has been observed that fraudsters often target senior citizens whose children live away due to jobs or business commitments. People are again advised to remain careful, stay safe, and not fall prey to such fraudsters. (KNS)