Police launch cyber safety drive to warn senior citizens against threat of digital arrest frauds

Delhi Police on Sunday launched a citywide cyber safety drive to warn senior citizens against the rising threat of “digital arrest” frauds, with thousands participating in awareness sessions held simultaneously across all police stations in the Capital.

The programme was organised by the Delhi Police PRO Branch in coordination with the IFSO, SPUWAC and all district units. Sessions were held at every territorial police station and at the Senior Citizens Cell of SPUWAC, marking one of the largest single-day outreach efforts focused on cybercrime awareness for the elderly.

Delhi Police said the campaign was aimed at protecting senior citizens, who have emerged as prime targets for cyber fraudsters posing as law enforcement or government officials. “There is no such thing as a digital arrest in India’s criminal justice system. Any call or message claiming this is a fraud,” a senior police officer said during the session. A live discussion on cyber safety was conducted by ACP Manoj Kumar of IFSO and ACP Ranjay Atrishya of the PRO branch. The session was streamed on the official Delhi Police YouTube channel. Large screens were installed at police stations and police units, with nearly 250 screens used across the city to ensure maximum reach. Many senior citizens also joined the programme online from their homes.

Police officials said the sessions focused on explaining how cybercriminals exploit fear, authority and technology gaps to cheat victims. Participants were briefed on common tactics used in digital arrest scams, including fake police notices, forged summons from enforcement agencies and threats of immediate legal action to force money transfers.

Senior citizens attending in person were given printed pamphlets with simple instructions on identifying cyber fraud. Posters and standees were displayed at venues, and short awareness videos were screened before the live session began. The material stressed basic safety steps such as not sharing personal details, banking information or OTPs with unknown callers.

Police advised participants to stay calm when receiving suspicious calls or messages and to avoid acting in isolation. They were encouraged to consult family members, preserve evidence like screenshots or call recordings and report incidents without delay. Officers also explained the process of reporting cybercrime through police stations and helplines.

ACP Ranjay Atrishya added a personal touch to the session by reciting self-written poems to connect with senior citizens and encourage confidence in dealing with online threats. The gesture was well received by participants, many of whom interacted with officers during question-and-answer segments. Officials stressed that prevention through education is critical, especially as fraudsters constantly change their methods.

The programme also aimed to complement Delhi Police’s ongoing digital outreach efforts. In recent months, the force has conducted multiple cyber awareness initiatives, including two editions of “Cyber Samvaad.” In the first edition, 350 computer teachers from Delhi schools were trained at the Police Headquarters. In the second, lakhs of students and teachers from over 1,000 schools participated in online sessions.

The SPUWAC unit has also held dedicated programs for senior citizens, including lectures by noted cybersecurity experts on safe digital practices. Police said such efforts are necessary as more seniors use smartphones, online banking and digital services.

Officials urged citizens to share the information with elderly family members and neighbours. “Cyber criminals rely on silence and fear. Awareness is the strongest defence,” a police officer said, adding that Delhi Police will continue holding similar sessions to ensure no senior citizen falls prey to digital arrest scams.