Govt Orders WhatsApp To Block Device IDs Used In Digital Arrest Scams
I4C report triggers device-level action against fraudsters posing as police, CBI; government also weighing 180-day data retention and APK blocking rules
The Indian government has directed WhatsApp to block the device IDs of mobile phones used in digital arrest scams, moving beyond account-level action to cut off cybercriminals at the hardware level — preventing them from simply creating new accounts after being blocked.
The decision, based on a report by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, targets the unique digital identifiers embedded in every mobile device — including IMEI numbers, MAC addresses, and device serial numbers. By blocking these identifiers, authorities aim to ensure that fraudsters whose accounts are flagged cannot resume operations on the same device under a new number or profile.
Digital arrest fraud involves cybercriminals impersonating police, CBI, or government officials on WhatsApp calls and video calls, threatening victims with imminent arrest unless they transfer money immediately. The scam has claimed victims across the country, exploiting the platform's near-universal reach in India.
The government is also evaluating additional measures for platforms like WhatsApp, including mandatory storage of deleted account data for 180 days to aid investigations, implementation of advanced safety features, and identification and blocking of malicious APKs and fake applications used in fraud operations.
Citizens are advised not to trust unsolicited calls or messages, to remember that no government agency threatens arrest via WhatsApp, and to never share OTPs, bank details, or money with unknown callers. Incidents should be reported immediately to the cyber helpline at 1930.