Almost got “digitally arrested.” India needs Singapore’s playbook before the next scam call
Over a year ago, I received a call from someone claiming that an illegal parcel containing drugs was intercepted in my name. The call sounded so genuine that he managed to trap me on a continuous video call. Within minutes, I found myself under virtual arrest by a high-ranking officer of the “Mumbai Police.” I […] The post Almost got “digitally arrested.” India needs Singapore’s playbook before…
Over a year ago, the author received a call from someone claiming they intercepted an illegal parcel containing drugs in their name. This call appeared so authentic that it led to a virtual arrest by a high-ranking officer of the Mumbai Police. The caller demanded immediate cooperation or the victim would face real physical arrest.
The author disconnected the call and blocked the number, luckily escaping danger. This incident, along with another on WhatsApp, highlights the growing issue of "digital arrest" scams in India. These scams have become so prevalent that most Indians know someone who has been targeted or defrauded. Singapore has implemented a binding, platform-specific regulatory framework to combat scams through design changes on messaging, social media, and e-commerce platforms.
India currently lacks such a framework, relying on reactive measures like helplines, SIM-blocking drives, and advisories. The Singapore Police Force's new Codes of Practice, targeting platform design, have already reduced scam cases by 37% in two years. India needs similar measures to protect its large internet user base and booming digital payments ecosystem from industrialized scams.
Written by urgent.news from e27's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
