The Central Government has taken stringent measures to combat "digital arrest" scams. During a meeting of a high-level Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC), the government directed the messaging app WhatsApp to block specific device IDs that are being utilized in these fraudulent schemes. This measure aims to prevent scammers from repeatedly creating new accounts. It is worth noting that "digital arrest" constitutes a sophisticated form of cyber fraud. Scammers typically impersonate police officers, officials from the CBI or ED, or other law enforcement personnel.
Through video calls, they intimidate individuals by claiming they are implicated in serious criminal offenses. They then demand the transfer of funds to help the victims evade "arrest." Utilizing screen-sharing tools and "mule accounts," the illicit funds are rapidly transferred across multiple banks and states, making them extremely difficult to trace. According to a report by *The Indian Express*, 123,000 such cases were registered in 2024 alone, resulting in a total financial loss of ₹1,935 crore. This figure represents an approximately threefold increase compared to 2022. Cumulatively, these scams have caused financial losses amounting to approximately ₹3,000 crore. The Supreme Court took *suo motu* cognizance of this matter in October 2025 and expressed grave concern regarding this escalating threat.
High-Level Committee Meeting
The third meeting of the IDC—constituted by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in December 2025—was recently convened. The meeting lasted for three hours. Representatives from WhatsApp provided a detailed overview of their detection systems, enforcement actions, and safety safeguards. The committee put forward several recommendations, which WhatsApp has pledged to implement. The government issued several specific directives to WhatsApp:
Blocking Device IDs
This recommendation calls for the establishment of a mechanism to identify and block specific device IDs utilized in digital arrest scams. WhatsApp has been directed to submit a separate proposal outlining this mechanism within 45 days.
Safety Features
WhatsApp has been asked to introduce safety features similar to those found on apps like Skype—such as providing more detailed caller information, displaying warning signals for suspicious accounts, and enhancing the detection capabilities for scam networks. The company has been asked to submit a proposal regarding these features within 30 days.
Blocking Malicious Files
Strengthen technical mechanisms to detect and block malicious APKs and similar content. Develop safeguards to identify and intercept prolonged scam calls. Submit a proposal within one month.
User Data Retention
Retain data associated with deleted accounts for a minimum of 180 days, as mandated by the IT Rules, 2021.
Enhancing AI and Machine Learning
Expand AI/ML systems to detect impersonation, the misuse of official logos, and AI-generated content. Provide periodic progress updates.
SIM Binding
Adhere to and comply with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) directives issued in November 2025. Link WhatsApp accounts exclusively to active SIM cards to prevent anonymous usage and unauthorized multi-device access. Implement this within 4–6 months and submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) by the end of March.
Cooperation in Investigations
Provide timely responses to flagged signals regarding fraud networks, police impersonation, and the misuse of government symbols. Comply with the new IT Rules regarding the labeling of synthetic content.
Measures to Enhance User Security
WhatsApp has made several commitments in this regard. The company is already deploying police logo detection and media matching systems to identify and remove accounts featuring profile photos that display logos such as those of the Delhi Police, Mumbai Police, or the CBI. These measures are intended to enhance user security, assist investigative agencies, and ensure compliance with national security and data protection regulations. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Meta (WhatsApp's parent company) did not respond to requests for comment. In January and February 2026 alone, financial frauds amounting to ₹11.6 crore were reported. Given this context, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant. Users are advised to strictly refrain from transferring money in response to any calls purportedly made by "police" officials. In case of any suspicion, immediately report the incident by calling the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
