Hyderabad doctor targeted in ‘digital arrest’ fraud attempt

A senior doctor in Hyderabad narrowly avoided falling prey to a ‘digital arrest’ scam after fraudsters posing as police officers tried to intimidate him via video call. His assistant alerted the family, who contacted the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, preventing financial loss.

Hyderabad: A senior doctor from the city narrowly escaped falling victim to a ‘digital arrest’ fraud attempt after cyber crooks allegedly posing as police officers, tried to intimidate him through a video call.

The Hyderabad Cybercrime Wing has released an awareness video based on the incident to caution the public.

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According to Cybercrime officials, the doctor had received a video call from an individual impersonating a police officer. The fraudster claimed that the doctor was a suspect in a criminal case and instructed him not to inform anyone, pressuring him into compliance.

When the doctor stopped responding to calls, his assistant grew suspicious and alerted the family, who immediately contacted the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB).

Quick coordination with local cybercrime officials ensured no financial loss was incurred.

Police have warned citizens not to panic if they receive such calls and not send money or OTPs and not follow instructions from unknown callers claiming to be police or government authorities.

Victims or those receiving suspicious calls can immediately contact 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.