‘1930 is your lifeline’: Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath exposes a fraud that’s fooling thousands in India

Nithin Kamath, founder of Zerodha, has issued an urgent warning about the rise of digital arrest scams in India. Fueled by fear and urgency, these scams have become frighteningly realistic, tricking even the most cautious individuals into handing over their money or sensitive information.

“You receive an unexpected call from a courier company,” Kamath wrote in an X post. “The agent told you that the police seized a package of yours containing drugs or illegal items. They even reveal personal details like your Aadhaar number. You will soon receive calls from people claiming to be the police, CBI or other officials. “Most of us probably fall for it because it taps into our fears.”

Scams often start with a suspicious call, SMS or social media message. Scammers impersonate law enforcement officials by accusing victims of crimes such as money laundering or identity theft. Victims are then threatened with so-called “digital arrest” if they do not comply with the scammers’ demands.

“Digital arrest” is not a legal term under Indian law; This is a fabrication designed by cybercriminals to create psychological pressure. Legitimate law enforcement officials do not request payment, request personal information over the phone, or initiate legal action via call or video.

To help individuals avoid falling prey to these scams, look out for the following red flags:

• Suspicious communication: Scammers use unofficial phone numbers or email addresses posing as officials.
• Pressure tactics: They create a sense of urgency and panic by threatening immediate action.
• Requests for confidentiality: Victims are often told to remain silent under the guise of “national security.”
• Monetary requests: Legitimate authorities will never request money transfers or sensitive details over the phone.
• If you suspect that you are being targeted, stay calm, inform someone you trust and file a complaint with the cyber cell or the police. Those currently victimized should immediately call 1930 and provide evidence such as screenshots or call recordings to assist investigations.

“These scams are so real that hundreds of people lose their hard-earned money every day,” Kamath said.