CBI to probe all cases of digital arrest: What Supreme Court has ordered, is banks’ role also under scanner?
Supreme Court on Digital Arrest: Numerous frauds have occurred across the country in the name of digital arrest. People have been threatened with digital arrest by intimidating them in the name of police officers, commissioners, and agencies like the CBI and ED. Victims are threatened and are forced to transfer lakhs of rupees into the accounts as told by fraudsters. The Supreme Court has now taken a tough stand on such cases and ordered the CBI to investigate all such cases.
On Monday, a Supreme Court bench stated that the agency should probe digital fraud cases across the country. Furthermore, the court granted the agency free rein to investigate the role of banks.
Banks’ role also under scanner
The court stated that all states, regardless of the party in power, should immediately grant the CBI approval for this investigation. The court acknowledged that centralized investigation by a single agency is essential to prevent frauds involving such a large network. The Supreme Court also granted the CBI the discretion to investigate any bank that improperly opened accounts that were used in this fraud.
Cooperation of digital platforms is essential: SC
The digital arrest scam operates through phone calls, video calls, and messaging platforms. Therefore, the court clearly instructed Meta, Google, and other social media companies to immediately provide the CBI with all necessary data, information, and technical support. The court also acknowledged that scammers typically pose as police, agency, or government officials to spread fear, leading people to send money out of fear. Therefore, the cooperation of digital platforms is essential.
CBI can seek Interpol's help
The Supreme Court also directed that if the investigation reveals that this gang is operating from outside India or that money is being sent abroad, the CBI can seek Interpol's assistance. Coordination between agencies of both countries will enable action to be taken to dismantle this international network.