Delhi Couple Duped of ₹14 Crore in ‘Digital Arrest’ Cyber Scam Posing as National Security Case

An elderly doctor couple from south Delhi’s Greater Kailash was allegedly defrauded of nearly ₹14 crore after cybercriminals kept them under what investigators describe as a prolonged “digital arrest” for over two weeks, using intimidation, impersonation and claims of national security threats.

According to officials from the Delhi Police, the fraud unfolded between December 24 and January 9, during which the accused posed as officials from telecom and law enforcement agencies. The scammers allegedly forced the couple to remain on continuous phone and video calls, pressuring them into transferring money to multiple bank accounts.

The victim, Indira Taneja, said the ordeal began with a call from someone claiming to represent the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, warning that her mobile number would be disconnected due to alleged misuse. The call was later escalated to a video interaction with individuals dressed in police uniforms, with visible signage suggesting a police backdrop, making the deception appear credible.

The fraudsters allegedly accused her of involvement in money laundering linked to a bank account and claimed arrest warrants had been issued. The matter was framed as a “national security” case, creating fear and urgency. Despite informing the callers that her husband was recovering from surgery at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, the pressure reportedly continued.

Investigators said the couple, whose children live abroad, were instructed not to contact anyone during the so-called verification process. When the calls abruptly stopped on January 9, the couple approached the authorities, leading to the registration of an e-FIR and the launch of a detailed probe by the cybercrime unit. Police said efforts are underway to trace the bank accounts and individuals involved in the scam, which highlights the growing threat of sophisticated cyber frauds exploiting fear, isolation and misuse of official identities.