How It Works
Scammers spoof caller ID to appear as a local police station or court, claiming there is an arrest warrant out for the victim due to an unpaid fine, missed jury duty, or pending legal case. They demand immediate payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or prepaid cards to "cancel" the warrant.
Real Example
Caller (with spoofed police caller ID): "There is a warrant for your arrest for missing a court summons. Pay ₹25,000 now via instant transfer to avoid arrest within the hour." No such warrant actually exists.
Red Flags 🚩
- Caller ID shows a police or court number but the call feels scripted
- Demand for instant payment via wire transfer, UPI, or prepaid cards
- Refusal to let you verify by calling the police station back
- Threat of immediate arrest if you hang up or delay
Protection Steps 🛡️
- Real police never resolve warrants over the phone with instant payment.
- Hang up and call your local police station directly using a number you look up yourself.
- Caller ID can be spoofed — don't trust it as proof of identity.
- Never pay "fines" through UPI, gift cards, or wire transfer over a call.