Lucknow Police Launch Door-to-Door Drive to Tackle ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams
From temples to high-rises, citizens are being educated on cyber fraud tactics.....
Lucknow: In an unprecedented move to curb the menace of cyber fraud, Lucknow Police have rolled out a door-to-door awareness campaign against digital arrest scams, where conmen impersonate law enforcement officers to extort money.
The initiative began during Janmashtami celebrations, with police distributing pamphlets in temples and explaining scam tactics to devotees. Additional DCP (South) Vasanth Rallapalli, who is leading the drive, said officers are conducting awareness sessions across residential colonies, community centres, and temples to reach larger groups.
On Saturday, a session at Nigohan police station drew 150 participants. Citizens were briefed on the modus operandi of scammers, who use fake CBI IDs, WhatsApp video calls, and threats of immediate arrest to pressure victims into transferring money.
Residents have welcomed the outreach. At the ISKON temple, 52-year-old Meera Sharma said, “We come for peace, but criminals play on fear. The police explained everything so clearly. Now, I know what to do if I get such a call.” In Gomtinagar, software professional Rohit Verma added, “Today’s session gave us confidence. We even saved the official cyber helpline number in our phones.”
According to DCP Crime Kamlesh Dixit, the campaign is part of a statewide cyber awareness programme launched under UP DGP’s guidance, with citywide monitoring by Commissioner Amrendra Kumar Sengar. Police stations have been instructed to extend outreach to schools, colleges, markets, and villages.
How ‘Digital Arrest’ Scams Work
Victims receive calls from fraudsters posing as CBI or police officers, accused of crimes like money laundering.
Fake IDs are shown over WhatsApp video calls, followed by threats of immediate arrest.
Victims are pressured to pay “fines” instantly and remain confined at home under false investigation.
In one case, a 70-year-old retired navy officer and his 100-year-old father lost nearly ₹1.3 crore.
Safety Tips from Police Pamphlets
1. Police/CBI never conduct arrests over phone or video call. Report suspicious calls on 1930 or 112.
2. Never share OTP, bank details, or download unknown apps.
3. Educate elderly family members about such scams.
4. Do not rent out bank accounts for quick money.
5. Avoid video calls from strangers and suspicious links.
6. Stay away from illegal betting apps and investment scams.
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