Hyderabad Senior Citizen Loses Rs.21 Lakh in Aadhaar Misuse and “Digital Arrest” Scam
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A shocking case has emerged from Hyderabad where a 75-year-old man from Yakutpura fell prey to a sophisticated cybercrime. Fraudsters posing as police officers contacted him, claiming his Aadhaar card was misused to open a bank account linked to money laundering. To make their act convincing, they used WhatsApp video calls where one of them appeared dressed as an IPS officer, flashing fake documents and warning him not to disclose the matter as it was a “national secret.”
The fraudsters intimidated the senior citizen with threats of arrest, imprisonment, and heavy fines. Under pressure, he was instructed to transfer money for “verification.”
Financial Loss and Realisation
Between August 19 and September 2, 2025, the victim transferred Rs.21.01 lakh in five instalments through RTGS and NEFT. To strengthen their lie, the cybercriminals even sent forged letters with official-looking seals. However, when they demanded more money and failed to return his funds, the victim realised he had been duped and approached the police for help.
Police Advisory on “Digital Arrest”
The Hyderabad police issued an important clarification stating that there is no such thing as a “digital arrest.” Officials highlighted that no law enforcement agency will ever call an individual to announce their arrest, nor will they ask for money transfers for verification or investigation purposes.
Tactics Used by Cybercriminals
Scammers are increasingly posing as officials from the CBI, police, or government agencies. They trick victims by claiming their accounts are linked to financial crimes and may share fabricated CBI warrants, FIRs, or even fake Supreme Court orders. These tactics are aimed at instilling fear and forcing compliance.
Safety Tips to Stay Protected
Where to Report Cybercrime
Authorities urge citizens to immediately report such scams to the 1930 Cyber Helpline or via www.cybercrime.gov.in
. Victims in Telangana can also call or WhatsApp 8712665171 in case of emergency cyber frauds.
Cases like this highlight how cybercriminals exploit fear and misuse Aadhaar and official identities to defraud innocent citizens. Awareness, timely reporting, and open conversations with family can go a long way in preventing such devastating financial and emotional losses.
The fraudsters intimidated the senior citizen with threats of arrest, imprisonment, and heavy fines. Under pressure, he was instructed to transfer money for “verification.”
Financial Loss and Realisation
Between August 19 and September 2, 2025, the victim transferred Rs.21.01 lakh in five instalments through RTGS and NEFT. To strengthen their lie, the cybercriminals even sent forged letters with official-looking seals. However, when they demanded more money and failed to return his funds, the victim realised he had been duped and approached the police for help.
Police Advisory on “Digital Arrest”
The Hyderabad police issued an important clarification stating that there is no such thing as a “digital arrest.” Officials highlighted that no law enforcement agency will ever call an individual to announce their arrest, nor will they ask for money transfers for verification or investigation purposes.
Tactics Used by Cybercriminals
Scammers are increasingly posing as officials from the CBI, police, or government agencies. They trick victims by claiming their accounts are linked to financial crimes and may share fabricated CBI warrants, FIRs, or even fake Supreme Court orders. These tactics are aimed at instilling fear and forcing compliance.
Safety Tips to Stay Protected
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a government officer using official contact numbers.
- Do not panic or act in secrecy; instead, consult family members or report directly to the police.
- Never share personal information, bank account details, or OTPs over calls.
- Avoid transferring money to unknown accounts on verbal instructions.
- Stay vigilant, especially if you are a senior citizen, as fraudsters often target the elderly.
Where to Report Cybercrime
Authorities urge citizens to immediately report such scams to the 1930 Cyber Helpline or via www.cybercrime.gov.in
. Victims in Telangana can also call or WhatsApp 8712665171 in case of emergency cyber frauds.
Cases like this highlight how cybercriminals exploit fear and misuse Aadhaar and official identities to defraud innocent citizens. Awareness, timely reporting, and open conversations with family can go a long way in preventing such devastating financial and emotional losses.
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