Digital Arrest Scam: Govt Orders WhatsApp to Block Device IDs, Combat ₹3,000 Cr Fraud

• Central government takes strict measures against digital arrest scams, instructing WhatsApp to block device IDs.
• Digital arrest is a sophisticated cyber fraud where scammers impersonate law enforcement to extort money via video calls.
• 1.23 lakh cases registered in 2024, with ₹1,935 crore fraudulent transactions; total losses estimated at ₹3,000 crore.
• WhatsApp to implement proposals including blocking device IDs, enhancing security features, and strengthening malicious file detection.
• New measures include SIM binding to one active SIM, improved AI/ML for impersonation detection, and data retention for deleted accounts.