SC mulls CBI probe into all digital arrest cases

The Supreme Court on Monday indicated it may hand over the investigation of “digital arrest” cases to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), citing the scale and nationwide spread of the cybercrime.

- MPOST BUREAU

It also sought details of all First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in states and Union Territories relating to such cases.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi issued notices to all states and UTs, directing them to submit information on pending “cyber arrest” investigations by November 3, 2025. “Meanwhile, let notice be issued to all states and Union Territories through their standing counsel, returnable on November 3, 2025. The states and Union Territories are directed to furnish details of the cases of cyber arrest pending investigation in their respective jurisdictions. In this regard, they need not file any formal counter affidavit,” the bench said.

Digital arrest refers to a growing form of cyber fraud where scamsters impersonate law enforcement or government officials, use doctored video or audio calls to intimidate victims, and coerce them into transferring money. The court’ intervention followed a shocking case in Ambala, Haryana, where a senior citizen couple was defrauded of Rs 1.05 crore through forged court and agency orders.