Tamil Nadu DGP Warns Citizens Against AI-Driven Cyber Scams as Digital Frauds Surge
- William John
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
As cybercrime becomes increasingly sophisticated, Tamil Nadu’s top cop has issued a grave warning to the public: beware of digital frauds powered by artificial intelligence, voice cloning, and impersonation tactics. In a public advisory, Director General of Police (DGP) Shankar Jiwal highlighted the alarming rise in technology-driven scams targeting ordinary citizens across the state.
AI and Impersonation: The New Frontier of Cyber Fraud
“Scams are evolving at an alarming rate,” DGP Jiwal cautioned. He pointed out that one of the most common tactics used by fraudsters involves impersonating law enforcement officers, claiming that a person is “under arrest” and demanding immediate payment — often exploiting fear and confusion to extort money.
What makes these scams more dangerous is the use of AI voice cloning, allowing criminals to mimic the voices of family members or officials to manipulate victims into transferring money.
Popular Scams Circulating in Tamil Nadu:
Fake Law Enforcement Calls:Scammers impersonate police or government officials, threaten arrest, and demand immediate UPI payments.
WhatsApp Executive Impersonation:Criminals pose as CEOs or senior staff using fake profile photos and demand urgent transfers from unsuspecting employees.
Stock Market & Investment Fraud:Fraudsters lure victims with “insider tips,” fake websites, and false profit promises, only to disappear with their money.
Phishing via UPI Links:Victims receive fraudulent payment links via SMS or social media, leading to unauthorized transactions.
Social Media Romance and Blackmail:Offenders build trust on platforms, steal private data, and then use emotional manipulation or blackmail.
Fake Loan Apps:Rogue apps request permission to access users' photo galleries and contacts, then use private data for extortion.
Matrimonial Scams:Fraudsters create fake profiles, build relationships, and fabricate emergencies to extract money.
Cyber Slavery Rackets:Job seekers are duped with overseas offers and later forced into cybercrime syndicates, particularly in Southeast Asia.
DGP’s Safety Guidelines to the Public:
Do not fall for digital arrest threats. There is no such concept under Indian law.
Avoid interacting with strangers who ask for personal or financial details online.
Verify identities in person before sending money, especially on matrimonial sites.
Download apps only from trusted platforms like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Check app permissions before granting access to sensitive data like photos, contacts, or messages.
Don’t trust unsolicited job offers promising overseas placement without proper verification.
“Be cautious with unknown contacts on social media, and never share sensitive data unless absolutely sure of the recipient's identity,” DGP Shankar Jiwal advised.
Final Word: Public Vigilance is Key
As Tamil Nadu continues to witness a spike in digital fraud cases, especially those exploiting AI and new-age technology, the DGP's message is clear: public awareness and caution are our best defenses.
The police have urged residents to report suspicious online behavior immediately and not to fall victim to fear tactics or emotional manipulation.
For any assistance or to report cybercrime, citizens can visit https://cybercrime.gov.in or contact the nearest cyber police station
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