Digital house arrest involves cybercriminals trapping victims in their homes to defraud them. Perpetrators create fear by making audio or video calls, often impersonating law enforcement officials using AI-generated voice or video calls. They falsely accuse victims of wrongdoing related to their Aadhaar or phone number, sparking a sense of imminent arrest and forcing them to transfer money.

How It Works:

1. Initial Contact: Cybercriminals contact potential victims, claiming they have sent or are recipients of parcels containing illegal substances like drugs or counterfeit passports. They may also falsely inform the target’s relatives or friends of their involvement in a crime or accident, thereby creating a sense of urgency.

2. Impersonation of Authorities: The perpetrators present themselves as law enforcement personnel. They might use AI-generated voices or videos to convincingly impersonate police officers or other officials.

3. False Accusations: Victims are falsely accused of serious crimes or administrative infractions involving their Aadhaar or phone number. These accusations are designed to cause panic and a sense of impending arrest.

4. Coercion and Extortion: Criminals demand money from the victims, claiming it is necessary to close the case or avoid arrest. Victims are often coerced into making immediate financial transfers.

5. Constant Surveillance: Victims may be forced to remain visible on video conferencing platforms until they comply with the demands, ensuring they cannot seek help or verify the legitimacy of the accusations.

Typical Scenarios:

• Drug Trafficking Allegations: Victims are told they are involved in drug trafficking due to a parcel containing illegal substances supposedly linked to them.
• Counterfeit Documents: Accusations involving counterfeit passports or other illegal documents.
• False Informing of Relatives: Criminals may contact the victim’s relatives or friends, falsely informing them of the victim’s involvement in a crime or accident, heightening the sense of urgency and pressure.

Digital house arrest is a sophisticated form of cybercrime leveraging fear and technology to extort money from unsuspecting individuals. By impersonating law enforcement and creating realistic scenarios of imminent danger, cybercriminals trap their victims in their homes, both physically and psychologically, until their demands are met.