Abstract

With the introduction of the World Wide Web, the whole communication technology has been revolutionized. Noteworthy changes and achievements can be witnessed in the field of Information and Communication Technology by continuous progress and innovation of technology. But it has also resulted in new types of cybercrimes called ‘digital arrest.’ The advancement of technology has led to the formation of the digital era in which cyber threats are also evolving. Innovative forms of cybercrimes have originated in recent times. In digital arrest, deceiving tactics are used by the cybercriminals by impersonating themselves as officials from law enforcement agencies with the main objective of extorting and receiving a hefty sum of money from individuals. This paper examines the concept of digital arrest in the context of India, rising sparks of cyber criminality as far as digital arrest is concerned by taking into consideration the reports published by NCRB, PTI, etc. The paper highlights the existing legal provisions dealing with digital arrest, such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (now Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023). However, the paper analyzes certain challenges that acts as a loophole in ensuring the security of individuals, such as lack of awareness, rigid enforcement mechanisms, rapid increases in technology, etc. Government initiatives play an important role in providing a solution to the existing problem of such crimes. At last, the paper offers probable recommendations that can be adopted by the different stakeholders to ensure justice for the victims of digital arrest and suggestions that can curb the menace of this type of crime committed virtually, ensuring a sound and secure digital ecosystem in India.

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