Scammers misuse CJI Chandrachud’s name, ‘digitally arrest’ Gujarat youth for 34 hours | Crime News

A youth in Vadodara was digitally arrested for 34 hours by cybercriminals posing as Supreme Court officials, extorting Rs 1.65 lakh by falsely accusing him of money laundering. Authorities urge caution against suspicious calls and sharing personal details.

The fraudsters alleged that the victim was involved in a money laundering case and managed to extort a staggering amount of Rs 250 crore from various victims, with one young man losing Rs 1.65 lakh after being held in a ‘digital arrest’ for 34 hours.

Vadodara: In a case of cybercrime, a young man from Vadodara became a victim of a digital scam where criminals falsely claimed to be from the office of the Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud. 

The fraudsters alleged that the victim was involved in a money laundering case and managed to extort a staggering amount of Rs 250 crore from various victims, with one young man losing Rs 1.65 lakh after being held in a ‘digital arrest’ for 34 hours.

The 34-hour ordeal

The incident began when the victim received a phone call accusing him of illegal activities related to money laundering. The scammers manipulated him into staying online with them for an extended period, controlling his actions for 34 hours. 

During this time, they demanded that the young man keep his lights on even at night and prohibited him from contacting anyone, threatening a three-year jail sentence if he disobeyed.

Method of cyber criminals

The cybercriminals used fear and intimidation tactics, making the victim believe he was involved in serious crimes. They often use the following scare tactics:

• Suspicious bank activity: Claiming that illegal transactions have been detected in the victim’s bank account.
• SIM card misuse: Alleging that the victim’s SIM card has been used for unlawful activities.
• Terrorism links: Accusing the victim or their relatives of involvement in terrorist activities.
• Sex racket involvement: Suggesting that the victim is linked to a sex trafficking ring.
• Drug parcel allegations: Claiming that drugs were found in parcels linked to the victim.

How to protect yourself from digital scams

Cyber fraud cases are becoming more common, and scammers are finding new ways to trick people. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Hang up immediately: If you receive a suspicious call, end it right away.
• Never share personal information: Avoid giving out personal or bank details over the phone or online, especially to unknown callers.
• Stay alert: Be cautious of threats involving criminal accusations. Verify the caller’s identity through official channels before taking any action.
• Contact family: Inform a family member immediately if you receive a suspicious call.
• Report the incident: Reach out to the nearest police station if you receive any threatening or extortion calls.

Dimple Singh

Dimple Singh is a journalist by profession and an accomplished author. Currently serving as a Senior Sub-Editor at News 9, she brings with her 5 years of valuable experience in digital journalism from her previous company Times Of India. Her expertise lies in writing about crime and political news, where she skillfully combines her digital news writing abilities with a deep understanding of AI technology.


In the realm of literature, Dimple has authored five compelling fictional books. Her writing reflects a passion for powerful storytelling, capturing the imaginations of readers with every word. Dimple is known for her workaholic nature, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to her profession and her love for words.

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