RBI warns against digital arrest scam, urges users not to make these 4 mistakes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a crucial warning about a rising scam involving fake calls claiming that individuals are facing “digital arrests” for alleged financial misconduct. The scam, which is designed to extort money, has been circulating in recent weeks, targeting unsuspecting citizens.

According to the RBI, these fraudulent callers falsely claim that the victim is about to be digitally arrested due to some financial irregularity. The callers then pressure victims into transferring money or sharing sensitive personal information under the guise of resolving the issue. The central bank has emphasised that there is no such thing as a “digital arrest” and these calls are purely part of a scam to extort money.

.@RBI Kehta hai..DIGITAL ARREST is a SCAM to extort money!Beware of such calls!Dont panic - there is nothing like digital arrestDont share any personal/financial informationDont payImmediately report to https://t.co/Wu6bf0pAgy or call 1930 for help#RBI#RBIKehtaHaipic.twitter.com/BGulARmHC4

RBI Says (@RBIsays) February 21, 2025

The RBI has released a clear set of guidelines to help users protect themselves from such scams:

1. Don’t panic: There is no such thing as a digital arrest, so there’s no need to fear.

2. Don’t share: Never disclose your personal or financial details over the phone or through messaging services.

3. Don’t pay: If you receive such a call, do not make any payments or transfers to unknown accounts.

4. Report: If you encounter such a scam, immediately report it to cybercrime authorities at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 for assistance.

The RBI also released a message via WhatsApp in connection with the 90th Anniversary of the Reserve Bank, urging the public to be cautious and stay alert to avoid falling victim to cyber fraud.