In an era where digital interactions dominate, scams have become increasingly sophisticated and terrifyingly invasive. Beauty creator Ankush Bahuguna recently opened up about being held under digital arrest by scammers for 40 traumatic hours. In an emotional revelation, Ankush recounted how the ordeal unfolded, leaving him mentally shaken, financially strained, and deeply rattled by the experience.
Ankush Bahuguna Falls Victim To Online Scam
The ordeal began with a seemingly innocuous call from an international number. The automated message claimed that Ankush’s courier delivery had been cancelled and prompted him to press 0 for assistance. Driven by curiosity, he pressed the number a decision he later called the “biggest mistake of his life.” The scammers introduced themselves as customer support, claiming that a package with his identity documents had been seized by customs for containing illegal items. They alleged his Aadhaar card and name were tied to the package and insisted he was now implicated in serious crimes, including money laundering and drug trafficking.
As Ankush panicked, the scammers escalated their threats. They warned him of an arrest warrant and convinced him that his life and family were in danger. They further manipulated him by claiming they would “help” him clear his name, transferring him to a video call with a supposed police officer. “I was interrogated by someone wearing a police uniform in a WhatsApp video call,” Ankush shared. “They used names of real criminals, accused me of crimes, and even threatened physical violence. They told me I was now under self-custody, and I had no choice but to comply.”
The scam spiraled further. Ankush was ordered to remain on a video call continuously for 40 hours, cutting off all contact with the outside world. He was forced to switch off his gadgets, show his surroundings to prove he wasn’t lying, and even send screen recordings of his phone activity to the scammers. The scammers were experts at psychological manipulation, using a mix of fear tactics and emotional appeals. They alternated between “good cop” and “bad cop” roles to gain Ankush’s trust and further isolate him.
More Details On The Scam
“They convinced me that my family’s safety was at risk, that my career would be over if I didn’t comply,” Ankush said. “Every time I tried to think logically, they escalated their threats, leaving me too scared to act.” The trauma intensified as Ankush’s friends and family began noticing his uncharacteristic silence. Despite their repeated attempts to contact him, the scammers instructed him to reassure everyone he was fine but busy.
On the second day, the scammers instructed Ankush to visit a bank and attempt a suspicious transaction. Fortunately, the branch was closed, thwarting their plans. They then ordered him to check into a hotel, further isolating him. It was only when Ankush saw a message from a close friend warning him about similar scams that he began to suspect he was being manipulated. Summoning courage, he abruptly ended the call, packed his belongings, and fled the hotel.
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“I called my friends, trembling and crying, and told them everything,” Ankush said. “They assured me it was a scam and that I was safe now.” The experience left Ankush shaken but determined to raise awareness about such scams. He emphasized the importance of staying informed, being skeptical of unsolicited calls, and trusting one’s instincts.
Also Read: 5 Things To Not Do To Stay Safe From Scams!