Digital Arrest Scams: How to Spot Them and Stay Safe

Imagine answering your phone and hearing a stern voice on the other end claim they’re with your local police department or a federal agency. They say there’s a warrant out for your arrest—maybe it’s for missing jury duty, tax fraud, or suspicious online activity. You’re shocked, confused, maybe even terrified. Then they tell you it can all go away if you just pay a fine right now—using a gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.

This is the terrifying reality of a growing form of fraud known as a digital arrest scam.

These scams prey on fear and confusion, and they’re especially effective on vulnerable populations, such as seniors or those unfamiliar with law enforcement protocols. The scammers use caller ID spoofing technology to make it look like the call is coming from a legitimate source—such as a local police department, the IRS, or even the FBI. Their voices are often firm, rehearsed, and intimidating. Some even use sound effects, like background noise resembling a police station, to add to the illusion.

Once they have your attention, they make up a believable-sounding accusation. You might be told you missed a court date, failed to pay taxes, or were involved in illegal activity online. The threat escalates quickly: unless you act immediately, they claim, officers will come to arrest you.

At this point, they demand payment to “clear” the issue—usually through methods that are untraceable, like prepaid gift cards, Venmo, Zelle, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Some even ask for personal information that can later be used for identity theft.

But here’s the truth: no legitimate law enforcement agency will ever demand money over the phone or threaten arrest without due legal process. Real police departments, court systems, and federal agencies follow strict procedures and typically communicate through official mail or verified in-person visits. If you really did have a warrant out for your arrest, no amount of phone-based negotiation or gift card payment would make it disappear.

The best defense against these scams is knowledge. If you receive such a call, take a breath. Do not engage. Hang up immediately. Do not share personal information. Do not make any payments.

After the call, report it. You can file a complaint with your local police department, especially if you’re worried the scammer is operating in your area. Additionally, report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.

Seniors are disproportionately targeted in these scams, so if you have older family members, consider talking to them about this type of fraud. Community education is critical. Some police departments and consumer protection agencies offer free workshops or information sessions on avoiding scams. Encourage participation and spread awareness.

Technology can also be your ally. Use smartphone apps or carrier services that detect and block known scam callers. Many of these services are free or low-cost and can screen suspicious calls before they ever reach you.

We live in an era where scammers are getting more sophisticated. But so can we. By staying informed, skeptical, and vigilant, we can protect ourselves and our communities from digital arrest scams. No one should have to live in fear because of a phone call.