Your Money, One Button, Total Control: Inside the New Kill Switch Against Digital Arrest Fraud

New Delhi: These days, a new cyber fraud called a digital arrest scam is increasingly making people its victims in India. In this, fraudsters call pretending to be police officers, CBI, ED, or any government agency and claim that a serious case is registered against you.

People are made to transfer money through fear, threat of arrest and pressure for “immediate action”. In many cases, people have lost even their savings of years. In such a situation, a new solution is now in discussion—the 'Kill Switch Button.'

After all, what is a digital arrest scam?

In this type of fraud, fraudsters talk in a very professional manner. They say that money laundering or some major crime has been committed in your name. Many times, an atmosphere like a fake police station is shown through video calls.

The victim is told that he is under “digital arrest” and cannot contact anyone. He is then asked to send the money to a so-called “safe account”. Due to fear, people transfer money without checking.

What is a kill switch button?

The kill switch can be a kind of digital emergency brake. As soon as someone is suspicious of a call or message, he can activate this feature. Its purpose is to stop everything in one fell swoop in case of fraud—so that losses can be avoided before the money is withdrawn.

How will this system work?

If the kill switch is activated:

• Suspicious calls may be automatically blocked
• Bank transactions may stop immediately
• UPI, net banking and cards may be temporarily frozen
• Contact with thugs can be completely lost

That means the moment a person feels that something is wrong, he can protect himself by pressing a button.

How effective can this feature be on digital arrest scams?

The biggest strength of this scam is haste and fear. Scams do not give time for people to take advice from anyone. The kill switch can eliminate this pressure. As soon as the system is closed, neither the money will be lost nor the fraudsters will be able to take the matter forward. This will give the victim a chance to think and take the right steps.

Where can this facility be found?

This feature will be available in the coming time:

• Banking apps
• UPI platform
• Mobile Operating System (Android and iOS)
• Cyber Crime Helpline System

Can be added to. In some countries, work on such digital safety controls is already underway.

Is caution necessary while using the kill switch?

• This should only be used in true emergencies
• Activating it incorrectly or jokingly can cause problems
• After turning it on, there should be a proper verification process to reactivate the account.

Overall, the kill switch is not a magical solution, but it can give people valuable time and a stronger layer of protection to avoid scammers.