Digital arrest
A scam where fake police or officials keep a victim on a long video call, claiming they are under 'digital arrest' until they pay.
How it appears in scam messages
Victims are told a case or illegal parcel is linked to them, ordered to stay on a video call, kept from contacting anyone, and pressured to transfer money to 'prove innocence'.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: This is the cyber police. Stay on this video call and transfer funds to verify your innocence.
Why it matters
It's a high-harm scam that uses fear, authority, and isolation to extract large sums - but no such lawful process exists.
Common red flags
- A 'video call' interrogation by 'police' or 'customs'
- Orders not to disconnect or tell anyone
- Demands to transfer money to a 'safe account'
- Threats of arrest or legal action
Safe next steps
- Pause - authorities don't demand payment or threaten arrest by message.
- Verify through an official channel you look up yourself and tell someone you trust.
- Save evidence and report it to your cybercrime authority.
Related scam types
Related scam messages you can check
- Is this fake police digital arrest message a scam?
- Is this fake court notice on WhatsApp a scam?
- Is this fake customs parcel crime call a scam?
- Is this fake Dubai Police fine message a scam?
Related scam-type hubs
Related red flags
Emergency guides
Frequently asked questions
Is digital arrest real?
No. No genuine police force arrests or interrogates anyone over a video call. Hang up, tell someone you trust, and report it.