ED Sounds Alarm: No Such Thing as 'Digital Arrest' Under PMLA, Warns Against Growing Scam

In an urgent and crucial clarification, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has stepped forward to dismantle a dangerous new wave of fraud targeting unsuspecting citizens. The agency unequivocally stated that there is no concept of a "digital" or "online" arrest under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

This emphatic declaration comes amidst a worrying surge in scams where fraudsters, impersonating law enforcement officials, attempt to extort money through the alarming ruse of a "digital arrest."

The ED's official statement serves as a vital public service announcement, aiming to educate and protect individuals from falling victim to these sophisticated financial crimes.

According to the Directorate, any arrest made under the PMLA is a meticulously documented, in-person process, strictly adhering to established legal procedures. This involves physical presence, the production of arrest warrants where applicable, and a clear, transparent engagement with the individual in question.

The notion of an arrest being conducted remotely, over the phone, or via digital communication platforms is entirely fictitious and a clear indicator of a scam.

These "digital arrest" scams typically unfold with criminals contacting victims through calls, messages, or even video conferences, claiming to be from the ED or other government agencies.

They often weave elaborate narratives, accusing the victim of money laundering, drug trafficking, or other severe financial crimes. The fraudsters then threaten immediate "digital arrest" or legal action if a hefty sum of money is not transferred to them, often citing "bail," "fine," or "legal fees" as the pretext.

They might even display fake ID cards or official-looking documents to lend credibility to their deceit.

The Enforcement Directorate has robustly reiterated that its officers operate within the strict confines of the law. An ED arrest procedure mandates personal interaction, a thorough investigation, and the presentation of grounds for arrest in writing.

Furthermore, individuals are always informed of their rights, including the right to legal counsel. There is absolutely no scenario where the ED or any legitimate law enforcement agency would demand money for an arrest, bail, or to "resolve" a case over the phone or online without due process.

The public is strongly advised to exercise extreme caution.

If you receive a call or message from someone claiming to be an ED official and demanding money for an "online arrest" or threatening legal action for non-payment, it is a scam. Do not engage, do not share personal or financial information, and under no circumstances transfer any money. Instead, immediately disconnect the call and report the incident to your local police or the cybercrime helpline.

Verifying the identity of officials through legitimate channels, rather than relying on information provided by the caller, is paramount.

This clear directive from the ED aims to fortify public awareness against these insidious digital frauds. By understanding the genuine procedures of law enforcement and recognizing the red flags of these scams, citizens can better protect themselves and contribute to a safer digital environment.

The message is unequivocal: real arrests are never digital, and legitimate law enforcement will never demand money over the phone.