National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian emphasized the need for enhanced legal and institutional actions to combat digital arrest scams, citing their escalating threat to citizens’ rights and security. Cyber-enabled frauds have become a significant concern, with Indians reportedly losing around Rs 52,976 crore to such crimes over the past six years. A notable portion of these losses, nearly eight percent, is attributed to digital arrest scams where fraudsters pose as law enforcement officials to extort money from victims through fear tactics.
Justice Ramasubramanian highlighted the challenges faced by victims in recovering lost funds, noting the cumbersome and distressing legal procedures involved. He underscored the necessity to bolster recovery mechanisms, address legal loopholes, fortify law enforcement responses, and establish standard operating procedures to combat these scams effectively. Additionally, he proposed the exploration of alerts during extended over-the-top (OTT) calls as a preventive measure against digital fraud.
NHRC members Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi and Vijaya Bharathi Sayani echoed the call for improved strategies to tackle digital fraud. Sarangi pointed out existing gaps in addressing digital fraud challenges and expressed optimism that collaborative discussions would yield practical solutions. Sayani emphasized the importance of safeguarding citizens from cybercrime and financial fraud as integral to good governance, stressing the collective responsibility to prevent individuals from falling victim to such fraudulent activities.
NHRC Secretary General Bharat Lal, in his introductory remarks, highlighted the disproportionate impact of cybercrimes on elderly individuals, leading to financial losses and psychological distress among retired officials, professionals, industrialists, and bankers. Lal also raised concerns about cybercriminals exploiting leaked personal data to target vulnerable groups, underscoring the critical need for data privacy and protection measures. Suggestions arising from the discussions included the recognition of digital arrest scams as a distinct offense within the current legal framework to facilitate more efficient investigation, prosecution, and victim support.
