Operation Chakra-V

GS3 – S&T

Context:

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully carried out a major crackdown on ‘Digital Arrest’ scams as part of its ongoing anti-cybercrime initiative—Operation Chakra-V.

Objective of Operation Chakra-V

• Launched to target and dismantle transnational cybercrime networks, with a special focus on organized financial and digital frauds.
• This operation is the successor to Operation Chakra-IV, which also aimed at curbing cyber-enabled financial crimes and involved collaboration with INTERPOL and other global agencies.

What is a Digital Arrest Scam?

• A ‘Digital Arrest’ refers to a cyber fraud technique where criminals impersonate law enforcement or government officials through phone or video calls.
• Victims are falsely informed that they are under digital arrest for alleged offenses.
• Fraudsters then demand personal details or money—often under the guise of bail, penalties, or bribes—to prevent supposed legal action.