Delhi Police educate senior citizens about ‘digital arrest’ scams

The Delhi Police on Sunday organised a citywide cyber safety awareness programme for senior citizens to address the growing threat of “digital arrest” frauds, said officials.

The sessions were organised at all territorial police stations across the Capital and at the senior citizens cell of the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC).

The initiative was led by the Public Relations Office of Delhi Police and held in collaboration with the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit, SPUWAC and all police districts.

Thousands of senior citizens attended the sessions in person and more joined online. A discussion on cybercrime awareness was conducted by Manoj Kumar, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), IFSO, and Ranjay Atrishya, ACP, APRO. The session was streamed live on the official YouTube channel of Delhi Police, with viewing arrangements made at police stations and units across the city.

During the programme, participants were informed about common tactics used by cyber criminals, including threatening phone calls, messages and fake notices claiming to be from law enforcement agencies. Officers clarified that there is no concept of “digital arrest” under India’s criminal justice system and that such claims are used to intimidate victims into transferring money.

Senior citizens were advised to remain calm when receiving suspicious calls or messages and to avoid sharing personal or financial information. They were encouraged not to isolate themselves, to consult family members, preserve evidence such as screenshots and recordings, and report incidents through official cyber crime reporting channels. The reporting procedure was explained during the sessions as well.

Educational pamphlets on digital arrest frauds were distributed to participants. Cyber safety posters, standees and short awareness videos were displayed and screened at the venues ahead of the live discussion.

To engage with the audience, ACP Atrishya recited poems. The Delhi Police said the initiative forms part of its continued efforts to raise cyber safety awareness, particularly among vulnerable groups.

Officials said the aim of the programme was to reach senior citizens across the city and help them identify and respond to online frauds, with a specific focus on digital arrest scams.