CBI Launches AI-Based Helpbot “ABHAY” for Authentication of CBI Notices

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched “ABHAY” — an AI-Based Helpbot for Authentication of CBI Notices — to protect citizens from rising cyber fraud and digital arrest scams.

ABHAY is a first-of-its-kind real-time notice verification system that enables citizens to verify whether a notice claiming to be issued by the CBI is genuine or fraudulent. Citizens can access the chatbot through the official website of the Central Bureau of Investigation.

Function of ABHAY

The chatbot analyses notices and informs users whether they are genuine and potentially fraudulent. 

The initiative aims to strengthen public awareness and enhance protection against cyber-enabled crimes.

Rising Threat of Cyber Fraud

The CBI warned citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes, particularly those involving “Digital Arrest” tactics. Cyber-enabled fraud has emerged as a major challenge for India’s criminal justice system due to rapid technological advancements such as:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Deepfakes
• Voice cloning
• Fake digital documents

These technologies make it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to distinguish between authentic and fabricated communications.

What is a ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam?

A “Digital Arrest” scam is a fraudulent cybercrime technique in which scammers impersonate law enforcement officials and create fear in victims through fake legal threats.

Modus Operandi

• Fraudsters send fake notices appearing to be issued by law enforcement agencies.
• Victims are falsely accused of involvement in criminal activities.
• Scammers conduct sham investigations through video calls and online monitoring.
• Victims are psychologically pressured into remaining under so-called “digital arrest” for several days.
• Fraudsters extort money or sensitive personal information from victims.

The CBI clarified that the concept of “Digital Arrest” has no legal existence under Indian law.

Source: PIB