A 68-year-old man from Hyderabad fell victim to a chilling cyber scam, losing ₹26.06 lakh to fraudsters who exploited the tragic Pahalgam terror attack to weave an elaborate web of deceit. The scam, which unfolded between September 17 and September 19, 2025, highlights the growing menace of "digital arrest" frauds targeting vulnerable individuals with terrifying precision.
The ordeal began with a menacing phone call from scammers impersonating officials from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS). Claiming the senior citizen was under investigation for money laundering and alleged ties to the Pahalgam attacks in Kashmir, the fraudsters used fear as their weapon. To bolster their deception, they presented forged documents, including fake arrest warrants and fabricated Reserve Bank of India (RBI) letters, accusing the victim of receiving ₹70 lakh from a terrorist network.
Under relentless pressure, the victim was coerced into transferring ₹26.06 lakh in two instalments to a bank account registered under the name "Hentry Jones." The scammers maintained constant communication, warning him against informing his family or authorities, threatening a so-called "digital arrest" if he failed to comply. The combination of sophisticated tactics, such as caller ID spoofing and fabricated official documents, created an illusion of legitimacy that kept the victim trapped in their scheme.
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The fraud only came to light when the victim's family noticed unusual behavior and pressed him for details. Realizing he had been deceived, the man reported the incident to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930). Authorities are now investigating the case, but the incident underscores a disturbing trend of cybercriminals exploiting real-world tragedies to manipulate and extort innocent individuals.
Hyderabad police have issued a stern warning about the rise of "digital arrest" scams, emphasizing that no legitimate law enforcement agency conducts arrests over digital platforms or demands money to resolve alleged criminal charges. These fraudsters often impersonate high-ranking officials from agencies like the NIA or ATS, using fake documents and video calls to create urgency and fear. Their tactics are designed to exploit trust and panic, targeting vulnerable groups like senior citizens.
To protect yourself, authorities advise remaining calm if you receive such a call. Disconnect immediately, and never share personal or financial details with unknown callers. Verify any suspicious claims by contacting your local police station or an official government helpline. If you’ve suffered a financial loss, report it promptly by calling 1930 or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in to file a complaint.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics used by cybercriminals. Staying vigilant and informed is crucial to avoiding falling prey to such sophisticated scams.
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