In a major push to curb the growing threat of “digital arrest” scams, the Central government has informed the Supreme Court of India that a coordinated, multi-agency crackdown is underway, leading to the banning of 9,400 suspicious accounts on WhatsApp.
The action forms part of a comprehensive strategy involving telecom regulators, financial institutions, investigative agencies and technology platforms, according to a status report submitted by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Supreme Court Monitoring Rise in Digital Fraud Cases
The developments come after a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant took suo motu cognisance of increasing online frauds, including digital arrest scams—where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money.
The court had earlier directed agencies like the Reserve Bank of India and the Department of Telecommunications to collaborate and develop a framework, including compensation mechanisms for victims.
WhatsApp Tightens Enforcement, Introduces New Safety Features
As part of the crackdown, WhatsApp conducted a targeted investigation into scam networks over the past 12 weeks, identifying and dismantling organised fraud operations.
The platform has introduced several new safety measures, including:
- Detection and removal of accounts using fake government or police logos
- Plans to alert users when receiving calls from newly created or suspicious accounts
- Proposal to hide profile photos of unknown callers to reduce impersonation risks
Additionally, WhatsApp is working on a SIM-binding feature, which will require the registered SIM card to remain active in the device for the app to function—adding another layer of security.
Telecom Sector to Block Fraud SIMs Within Hours
The Department of Telecommunications and telecom service providers have committed to significantly reducing response time in tackling fraud. A new system is being developed to block suspicious SIM cards within 2–3 hours of detection.
A key proposal includes the rollout of a Biometric Identity Verification System for SIM issuance, aimed at enabling real-time monitoring across networks. This system is expected to be implemented nationwide by December 2026.
RBI, CBI Step Up Financial and Criminal Enforcement
The RBI has introduced a Standard Operating Procedure directing banks to temporarily freeze suspicious transactions, particularly those linked to mule accounts used in cyber fraud.
Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation has set a ₹10 crore fraud threshold for taking over digital arrest cases. It has already re-registered multiple high-value cases, including one involving a ₹22.92 crore scam in Delhi.
Government Seeks Stronger Enforcement Framework
The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged the Supreme Court to direct faster implementation of telecom rules and ensure compliance from service providers. It has also called for a robust mechanism to quickly identify and block fraudulent SIM cards used in cybercrime.
Officials emphasised that the fight against digital scams requires continuous coordination between government agencies and private platforms, along with stronger technological safeguards.
Rising Threat Prompts Nationwide Cybersecurity Push
With digital arrest scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, authorities are focusing on prevention, rapid response, and public awareness. The latest measures aim to reduce financial losses, protect users, and strengthen India’s overall cybersecurity ecosystem.
