Retd district judge falls prey to 'digital arrest' scam, loses over Rs 1 crore

In the digital arrest scam, fraudsters intimidate individuals by falsely accusing them of illegal activities.

Hyderabad: A retired district judge fell prey to the "digital arrest" scam and lost more than Rs 1 crore, police said on Monday.

The cyber "crooks" threatened the 69-year-old retired judge about a week ago, claiming that his mobile number was found involved in women trafficking and other offences, they added.

The victim, a resident of Malkagjri here, transferred more than Rs 1 crore to them, police said. After realising that he was cheated, he lodged a complaint three days ago, and an investigation is underway.

Asked how the victim was cheated despite being a retired judge, police said victims typically get scared with the threats from fraudsters.

In the digital arrest scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to deceive victims. They intimidate individuals by falsely accusing them of illegal activities and then demanding money, pressuring them to make the payment.