Digital Arrest Is A Scam: CM Devendra Fadnavis Warns Citizens, Urges Immediate Reporting Of Online Fraud
Digital Arrest Is A Scam: CM Devendra Fadnavis Warns Citizens, Urges Immediate Reporting Of Online Fraud
Mumbai | February 25, 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has categorically stated that “digital arrest” is a complete hoax and warned citizens not to fall prey to such cyber fraud tactics. Speaking in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly during the Budget Session 2026, he clarified that no authority can legally conduct a “digital arrest” through phone calls, messages, or video calls.
The Chief Minister said that any call, message, or video communication claiming that a person is under “digital arrest” is part of a fraudulent operation. Citizens receiving such communication should immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline number 1930, he advised.
Fake Police and Customs Officers Target Citizens
The issue was raised in the Assembly by MLA Abu Azmi, who highlighted the growing number of cyber fraud cases in Mumbai and Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar) involving so-called “digital arrest” scams.
Responding to the query, CM Fadnavis explained that fraudsters often impersonate police officers, customs officials, or law enforcement authorities, claiming that illegal items such as drugs have been found in parcels allegedly linked to the victim’s name. Victims are then told they are under “digital arrest” and instructed not to move away from their screens, creating fear and psychological pressure.
The scammers use this fear to force people into transferring large sums of money online. The Chief Minister revealed that not only ordinary citizens, but even senior retired officials, including a former IAS officer and a senior naval officer, have fallen victim to such scams.
International Fraud Network, Local Handlers
According to the state government, these cybercrime networks are operated from outside India, while local individuals function only as handlers within the country. To tackle this growing threat, the state has developed a comprehensive cybercrime control system to monitor, track, and respond to such offences.
Immediate Reporting Can Help Recover Money
CM Fadnavis stressed that if a victim reports a wrong money transfer immediately to 1930, there is a strong possibility that the amount can be frozen and recovered through coordination with banks.
He also stated that both the state and central governments are running large-scale public awareness campaigns through TV advertisements, caller tunes, and digital platforms to educate citizens about “digital arrest” scams. Despite this, people continue to fall into the trap daily.
Public Advisory
Calling for greater public vigilance, the Chief Minister urged citizens to:
- Never trust calls claiming “digital arrest”
- Never transfer money based on fear or threats
- Verify information with official authorities
- Report cyber fraud immediately on 1930
MLA Abhijit Patil also participated in the Assembly discussion on the issue.
Authorities have reiterated that awareness, quick reporting, and caution are the strongest tools to prevent cybercrime and financial fraud.
