A dangerous scam is circulating where fraudsters impersonate officials from the Data Protection Board of India (DPBI), falsely accusing victims of using their Aadhaar-linked mobile number to spread vulgar or illegal content. The scam aims to induce panic through threats of arrest or legal action.
Victims are contacted via spoofed numbers, often transferred between fake “officials” posing as police or cybercrime agents. The scammers demand personal details, financial information, or even money transfers to “secure” accounts. In some cases, they coerce victims into installing remote access software like AnyDesk to hijack devices.
By referencing Aadhaar, they make the scam feel more personal and credible. This manipulation, known as a “digital arrest,” isolates the victim and prevents external verification.
Red flags include unsolicited calls from “authorities,” demands for immediate payment, threats of arrest, or instructions to install remote access tools.
Stay protected: Disconnect such calls, never share sensitive data, and verify any claims through official websites like www.meity.gov.in. Report incidents via the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) or www.cybercrime.gov.in.
This scam highlights the growing threat of digital impersonation. Awareness and quick action are your best defense.
