In Just 9 Months, 36 Elderly People Fell Victim to Cyber Frauds – Could Your Parents or Guardians Be Next?

With just one click or one phone call, elderly citizens in Goa have lost lakhs of rupees to cyber criminals. In the past 9 months, 36 senior citizens have been duped, and 15 of them fell prey to a disturbing new scam known as the "Digital Arrest Fraud."

Here’s how it works – and what you can do to protect your loved ones.

🚨 What Is the ‘Digital Arrest Scam’?

In this scam, fraudsters pose as police, CBI officers, or bank officials and call unsuspecting senior citizens. They claim that the victim’s identity has been linked to a criminal offense or money laundering case. Under the threat of "immediate arrest," the victim is asked to transfer money as a "fine" or "bail."

Out of fear and confusion, many elderly people comply without consulting family – and often, they’re too embarrassed or frightened to even file a complaint afterward.

👴 Why Are Elderly People Easy Targets?

Goa Police's cyber cell has identified key vulnerabilities:

• Limited digital literacy

• Social isolation or living alone

• Trusting nature

• Stable finances or retirement savings

These factors make seniors soft targets for cyber criminals, who are now operating beyond state borders.

📈 The Growing Network of Cyber Fraud

Goa isn’t alone. In the last few months, the state cyber cell has busted multiple high-value scams:

• Over ₹1 crore fraud by a Karnataka-based individual, arrested after duping an Old Goa resident.

• A ₹2.3 crore investment scam involving a Bengaluru man, arrested after scamming a resident of Valpoi, Sattari.

These cases highlight how cyber gangs are expanding across states, operating as professional fraud networks.

🔐 How to Protect Your Loved Ones

Especially if you have elderly parents or relatives, take these steps:

1. Never share OTPs, bank details, or PAN numbers over a call or message.

2. Hang up immediately if someone calls claiming to be from the police, CBI, or bank demanding money.

3. Educate seniors regularly about common scams and fraud methods.

4. Install spam filters and antivirus software on their devices.

5. If a scam is suspected:

   • File a complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in

   • Call the Cyber Helpline: 1930

Cyber criminals are now targeting the most vulnerable sections of society with fear-based frauds. Protecting your elders is not just a technical issue – it’s a family responsibility.

Ensure that your parents or guardians are aware of these tricks. Keep the conversations open and frequent. Your one discussion could save them from losing their life’s savings.