Alert : “Digital Arrest” – Fake Online Police Scam

Cybercriminals impersonate police officers, judges, or legal authorities through video calls, emails, or messaging apps to extort money under the threat of a “digital arrest”.

Fake law enforcement scam

Victims are contacted via WhatsApp, Telegram, or video call. The scammer shows fake investigation documents and threatens arrest or prosecution unless a fine is paid immediately.

How it works

Scammers use forged visuals and real law enforcement identities (Interpol, Europol, FBI, local police). Their goal is to create panic and push the victim into making a quick payment via transfer or cryptocurrency.
Red flags: threats of immediate arrest, fake documents, urgent payment requests.

Tips:

• 🚫 Real authorities never demand payment through messaging apps.
• 📞 Hang up immediately and block the contact.
• 🔍 Report the scam to your local police or an official reporting platform.
• 💬 Warn your relatives about this scam to prevent panic.
• 📢 Keep screenshots and messages as evidence for complaint.

Conclusion

Never act out of fear — no real police force will ever request money online. Report any attempt to reportfraud.ftc.gov or actionfraud.police.uk.
Learn more:
How to Spot and Avoid Online Scams

Written by : René Ronse
Methodology : Our alert articles are based on regular monitoring of national reporting platforms, feedback from victims, and statements issued by relevant authorities.
About the author : René Ronse, manager of ArnaqueOuFiable.com. Expert in consumer cybersecurity, specialist in detecting online fraud, product transparency, and digital compliance. He has over 20 years of experience analyzing hidden subscription mechanisms, unreadable terms and conditions, aggressive sales tactics, and deceptive commercial practices on the web.
Sources : isaca.org | wikipedia.org | ijrpr.com
Last updated : 17 October 2025.
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