A Class 8 student in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly stopped a major cyber fraud attempt after scammers allegedly held his parents on a prolonged “digital arrest” video call and tried to extract sensitive financial information.
The incident took place in the Prem Nagar area, where cybercriminals targeted local trader Sanjay Saxena and his wife by posing as officials from an investigative agency. According to police, the callers falsely accused the couple of links to terrorist activities and a multi-crore financial scam, and even shared a fabricated arrest warrant during the video call.
Under the pretext of a “digital arrest,” the fraudsters kept the couple on a continuous video call for nearly 10 hours. They imposed strict instructions, asking them not to step out of their home and to remain visible on camera at all times, even during routine activities. The sustained psychological pressure left the couple frightened, leading them to share bank details and information about their valuables.
According to The Times of India, the couple’s 13-year-old son, Tanmay, grew suspicious of the situation. “I was sure this was a case of digital arrest, as I had read about it in The Times of India,” he said, adding that his concern increased when the callers began asking about property and jewellery details.
Despite his parents’ hesitation, Tanmay intervened and convinced his father to switch the phone to flight mode, arguing it would not disconnect the call. The move immediately cut off communication with the fraudsters, preventing any financial loss. The family then alerted the police.
Sanjay Saxena told The Times of India that he and his wife were “frozen with fear” and had already shared critical financial details before their son stepped in.
Police said that when the phone was later switched back on, the fraudsters attempted to reconnect, but this time officials answered the call and confronted them. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway.
Authorities said no legitimate agency conducts arrests over video calls or demands sensitive information under pressure. People have been advised to immediately disconnect such calls and report them to the police.
The case points to the growing threat of “digital arrest” scams and shows how awareness can help prevent cyber fraud.
