The Supreme Court digital arrest scam ruling has taken a significant step toward curbing online fraud, with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) informing the Court that directions have been issued to implement SIM-binding for platforms like WhatsApp. This measure aims to prevent misuse of OTT communication platforms in digital arrest scams, which have defrauded citizens of crores of rupees.
📜 Case Background
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Case Title | Suo Motu Case on Digital Arrest Scams |
| Court | Supreme Court of India |
| Judges | CJI Surya Kant & Justice Joymalya Bagchi |
| Issue | Measures to curb digital arrest scams |
| Ruling | DoT directions for SIM-binding; biometric verification rules in drafting stage |
The suo motu case was registered after a senior citizen couple reported being defrauded of ₹1.5 crore by scammers impersonating officials of the CBI, IB, and judiciary.
🧑⚖️ Supreme Court’s Observations & DoT’s Measures
- DoT has directed implementation of SIM-binding for WhatsApp and similar platforms.
- An inter-departmental committee has been set up to address vulnerabilities in SIM issuance and management.
- Biometric verification rules under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 are in the final drafting stage.
- Technological interventions like the Central International Out Roamer (CIOR) have blocked over 1.35 crore spoofed calls since October 2024.
- Banks are deploying AI-based fraud detection to prevent scam-related transactions.
- A memorandum of understanding (MoU) and standard operating protocol (SOP) have been drawn up to deal with digital arrest cases.
💬 Vakilify Insight
This ruling underscores the judiciary’s proactive role in tackling cyber fraud and digital arrest scams. By mandating SIM-binding and biometric verification, the Court and DoT are attempting to close loopholes exploited by scammers. The case also highlights the importance of inter-agency coordination, technological safeguards, and AI-driven fraud detection in protecting citizens.
🔗 Related Reading and Links
- 👉 Explainer: Telecommunications Act, 2023
- 👉 Vakilify Blog: Maintenance Denied to Wife – CrPC Section 125
