Fake CBI Call Scam India
Fraudsters impersonating Central Bureau of Investigation officers via video call, threatening "digital arrest" for fabricated crimes. Here is exactly how it works and how to respond.
The Fake CBI Call Playbook
Initial Contact
Call from unknown mobile number. Caller identifies as "CBI Officer [Name], Special Crime Branch". Claims your Aadhaar/PAN/phone is linked to a money laundering case involving a criminal named "Naresh Kumar" who has listed you as an associate.
Escalation to Video Call
Victim is asked to join WhatsApp or Skype video call where multiple "officers" in uniform are visible. A fake CBI badge and official-looking case file may be shown. The atmosphere is authoritative and intimidating.
Isolation & Pressure
Victim is told to remain on video call at all times (even while eating/sleeping) and must not tell family or call anyone — "this is protocol during investigation". Designed to cut off rational consultation.
The Demand
Victim is told that ₹2–50 lakh must be transferred as a "security deposit" or "bail bond" to prove innocence. Once cleared, the money will be "returned by court order within 3 days".
Repeat Targeting
Victims who pay are targeted again — "additional charges found", "RBI clearance needed", "supreme court fee required". Losses compound until victim recognises the fraud.
Red Flags of a Fake CBI Call
Call comes from a personal mobile number, not an official landline
You are accused of financial crimes you have never heard of
Demand to stay on video call 24/7 — "digital custody"
Instruction not to tell family, lawyers, or friends
Request for payment via UPI, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
Claim that paying will "clear your name" — real bail is set by courts, not officers
"Clearance" costs keep increasing after each payment
Video background looks like a police station but caller uses personal WhatsApp
What to Do If You Receive a Fake CBI Call
- 1
Hang up immediately
Do not negotiate, do not give personal details, do not pay anything. There is no such thing as digital arrest.
- 2
Do not call back
Even if they call repeatedly. Save the number as evidence instead.
- 3
Inform family
Tell a trusted family member or friend about the call. Scammers want isolation — break it.
- 4
Report the number
At rakshaai.co/phone-number-checker to protect other Indians from the same number.
- 5
Call 1930
India's 24/7 national cybercrime helpline. File a complaint and get guidance.
- 6
File online complaint
At cybercrime.gov.in with the caller number, call time, and any screenshots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CBI arrest me over a phone or video call?▾
No — this is definitively impossible under Indian law. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has no authority to arrest, detain, or interrogate any citizen via phone or video call. Arrests by the CBI require physical presence with proper documentation, magistrate orders, and follow due process under the CrPC. Any call claiming you are under "CBI digital arrest" is fraud.
What does a fake CBI scam call look like?▾
The call typically begins with someone identifying themselves as a CBI officer. They allege your Aadhaar number, bank account, or mobile number is linked to money laundering, drug trafficking, or financial crimes. They demand you stay on video call (to monitor you), not inform anyone, and pay a "security deposit" to avoid arrest. The call may escalate with multiple "officers" joining.
How do I verify if a CBI call is genuine?▾
The CBI's official website is cbi.gov.in. Their official contact is +91-11-24368638. Real CBI officers will never call you on personal mobile numbers to announce arrests, will never conduct interrogations via WhatsApp video, and will never ask for payment to avoid criminal charges. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and call 1930.
What should I do if I receive a fake CBI call?▾
Do not panic — this is fraud. (1) Hang up immediately. (2) Do not pay any amount. (3) Save the number and report it at rakshaai.co/phone-number-checker. (4) Call 1930 to report to the national cybercrime helpline. (5) File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in. (6) Inform family members about the call to prevent them from falling for the same scam.