A scammer posing as a police officer in a digital arrest scam video call was unexpectedly met with a puppy. An Instagram user shared a video showing the encounter, in which the intended target of the scam can be seen stopping the cybercriminal‘s attempt by having a puppy answer the video call. The video shows a man answering a video call from a scammer dressed in a police uniform. Instead of engaging with the scammer, the man avoids the situation by using a puppy.
Take a look at the video here.
How the man used a puppy to outsmart the scammer
The video begins with the “police officer” stating he is calling from Andheri East police station in Mumbai. The fake officer then instructs the man to show his face to the camera. In response, the man picks up his small puppy and holds it before the camera, saying, “Yeh Lijiye, sir. Aagya Main Camera Ke Saamne,” as he brings the puppy closer to the lens.
Moments later, the scammer realises that he is being pranked and smiles before turning his phone away from himself. Laughing, the man continues, “Arey Yeh Raha Main. Arey, Thaanedaar. Dikhraha Hai? Arey Nakli Vardi.” The scammer eventually turns off his camera and disconnects the call.
This incident comes amidst a rise in “digital arrest scams,” highlighting a growing trend of these online scams. The incident even serves as a reminder to be cautious of unsolicited calls and online interactions, particularly those involving individuals claiming to be authority figures.
PM warns Indians about digital arrest scam.
In his October ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned the nation about the rising ‘digital arrest’ scam, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement or government officials to extort money.
He revealed that Indians lost Rs 120.3 crore to such scams in the first quarter of 2024. These scammers intimidate victims by posing as officials, using uniforms, legal jargon, and threats of arrest to demand payment.
