Retired judge in Hyderabad duped of Rs 1 crore in ‘digital arrest’ cyber scam

A retired district judge from Malkajgiri in Hyderabad was allegedly cheated of over Rs 1 crore in a ‘digital arrest’ scam. Fraudsters posing as law enforcement officials threatened him with arrest and forced him to transfer money to multiple bank accounts.

Hyderabad: A retired district judge from Malkajgiri had allegedly been cheated by cyber fraudsters to the tune of over Rs 1 crore in a ‘digital arrest’ fraud.

According to information available, the 69-year-old victim received calls from fraudsters who claimed that his mobile number had been linked to serious crimes, including women trafficking.

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Pretending to be law enforcement officials, the callers warned him of legal action and threatened arrest.

Believing the claims and fearing consequences, the retired judge transferred more than Rs 1 crore to bank accounts provided by the fraudsters in instalments over a period of time. He later realised he had been duped and approached the Neredmet police and lodged a complaint about three days ago.

Based on the complaint, the police have registered a case and are investigating.

Cybercrime officials had warned that cybercriminals in such frauds often impersonate authorities and intimidate victims with false allegations to force them into sending money.

They added that the fear created by these threats can make even experienced individuals fall victim to the fraud.