Scam type
Calls from police and officials
The caller knows your name, may show a uniform on a video call, and describes a case against you. There is no provision in Indian law for arresting anyone over a phone or video call, and the regulators these callers name do not phone people at all. Hang up and report it.
How to recognise it
- You are told to stay on the call and tell nobody
- A parcel, SIM or bank account you do not recognise is linked to a crime
- You are asked to transfer money to clear your name
The 5 guides
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How to Spot a Digital Arrest Scam in 2026
Indians lost INR 1,935 crore to digital arrest scams in 2024. How to spot the script, verify a suspicious call, and report to 1930 in 2026.
Do this now
- 1. Hang up No agency in India arrests anyone over a video call.
- 2. Leave the room, tell someone Isolation is the whole method. Talk to family.
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Got a Suspicious Call From Police? We Verify It Free
Digital arrest scams are surging across India. How to identify fake police calls, protect yourself, and verify suspicious contacts for free.
Do this now
- 1. Hang up Indian police do not arrest, investigate or take payment by call.
- 2. Screenshot and keep call logs The number, the time, anything they sent.
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Got a Call From the Data Protection Board of India?
A call from the Data Protection Board of India in 2026 is fake. No Members are appointed and DPDP penalties start in 2027. How to verify it and report it.
Do this now
- 1. Treat the call as fake The Data Protection Board has no members appointed yet.
- 2. Pay no penalty, share no documents No regulator collects a fine over a phone call.
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Phone Call Impersonation Scams in India 2026
Fake bank, TRAI, FedEx, customs, and Aadhaar calls are draining Indian families daily. How to spot the script and verify before you share or pay.
Do this now
- 1. Disconnect The longer it runs, the more control the caller has.
- 2. Verify on the official channel The number on your card, or the department website.
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Karnataka Safety Guide: Fake Police, Deepfake Scams
How Karnataka residents can spot fake police apps, deepfake calls, digital arrest scams, and phishing attacks. Updated for 2026 with checklists.
Do this now
- 1. Do not uninstall the app Disconnect the internet first. The app is evidence.
- 2. Capture screenshots and recordings Before you change anything on the device.