Supreme Court Orders CBI Probe Into Nationwide Digital Arrest Scams
The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation to take up all cases related to digital arrest scams, calling the crime a growing national threat.
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said the scams have become widespread, often involving extortion, fake threats of arrest and large financial losses, especially for senior citizens.
The Court noted that digital arrest scams, investment scams and part-time job scams are increasingly being used to trick people into transferring money. It said that investigations into digital arrest scams must be taken up first and completed on priority.
The bench issued several directions to strengthen the CBI’s probe.
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States that have not given general consent for CBI investigations were ordered to grant permission so that the agency can conduct action across India without restrictions.
The Court also allowed the CBI to investigate the role of bankers if they find corruption in the opening of accounts used for fraudulent transactions.
The Reserve Bank of India has been asked to assist the Court on whether artificial intelligence and machine learning tools can help identify suspicious accounts and stop the flow of scam money.
Telecom authorities and intermediaries under the IT Rules have been told to cooperate fully with the CBI.
The Court observed that many of these crimes are organised and may extend outside India. It said the CBI may seek help from Interpol whenever required.
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It also asked the Department of Telecom to submit measures to prevent misuse of SIM cards, especially when multiple connections are issued under the same name.
State governments have been directed to set up cybercrime centres at the earliest and report any delays.
The case began after a senior citizen couple reported losing ₹1.5 crore to fraudsters posing as officials from top agencies. The Court said such scams highlight the urgency of strong, coordinated action and stressed that cases involving senior citizens should be investigated first.
(With inputs from Bar and Bench)
