Digital Rakshak: New Helpline to Combat Fake Arrest Scams in Mumbai

The Mumbai Police have introduced a specialised helpline service called Digital Rakshak to combat the "digital arrest" danger. Its goal is to shield citizens from threats posed by cybercriminals posing as public servants. Officially announcing the initiative, Mumbai Crime Branch DCP (Cyber) Datta Nalawade explained that scammers frequently call gullible people posing as officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Customs, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), income tax, or even state police departments, claiming their "involvement” in crimes like money laundering or drug trafficking.

By using WhatsApp to issue fake FIRs, notices, and arrest warrants, these criminals threaten victims by claiming they are under "digital arrest," a phrase that is illegal in India. The two mobile numbers 7715004444 and 7400086666 serve their purpose for citizens to contact the Digital Rakshak helpline in order to counteract this. Anyone who receives questionable calls or digital documents alleging legal action can forward them to the helpline right away via WhatsApp. A committed team consisting of two police officers and one officer will confirm the documents' legitimacy with the appropriate government agencies and let the caller know if the notice is authentic or fraudulent.

Mumbai registered 195 cases of digital arrest scams in 2024, totalling R137 crore in losses, underscoring the seriousness of the problem, according to the cyber department. Seventy cases totalling an astounding Rs 76 crore in losses were reported in the first quarter of 2025. Mumbai Police advises everyone to be on guard and avoid becoming victims of cybercriminals who use intimidation. The Digital Rakshak helpline is up and running to safeguard Mumbai residents against the increasing threat of online fraud.

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What Should You Do When You Get Scammers’ Call?

Avoid panicking or interacting with the caller. Don't send any money or divulge any personal information. Contact the Digital Rakshak phone numbers 7715004444 and 7400086666 right away by phone or WhatsApp. For verification, forward any warrants, FIRs, or notices you receive. Ask an officer to come to your home and help if you feel unsafe.