New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday expressed serious concern over the rising incidents of so-called “digital arrests” — a new form of cyber fraud where criminals impersonate police officers or judges to extort money from innocent citizens.
A Bench led by Justices Sanjay Kumar and Augustine George Masih noted that such scams are spreading across multiple states, leaving victims “running from pillar to post” in fear and confusion. The Court described the issue as “deeply alarming” and called for urgent nationwide action.
The bench has issued notices to all States and Union Territories, directing them to submit detailed reports on the number of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered and cyber-related arrests made in such cases within their jurisdictions.
The case comes amid a surge in online scams where fraudsters pose as police officers, Enforcement Directorate officials, or even judges, using forged identity cards, fake video calls, and fabricated warrants to threaten victims with arrest unless they pay bribes or “fines.”
The Court observed that these fraudulent operations have undermined public trust in law enforcement and emphasized the need for stronger cyber surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and inter-agency coordination.
“This is a serious menace affecting citizens’ right to live without fear. States must act swiftly to identify and prosecute those behind these ‘digital arrests’,” the Bench remarked.
The matter will be taken up again after the States and Union Territories submit their compliance reports.
