In today’s connected world, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and even tech-savvy individuals can fall victim. Popular YouTuber Ankush Bahuguna recently shared his terrifying experience on Instagram, revealing how scammers trapped him in a 40-hour ordeal that cost him both money and peace of mind. His story is a stark reminder of how anyone can be targeted and the importance of staying alert.
Bahuguna, who had been absent from social media for three days, opened up about the scary incident. “I have been missing from social media and everywhere for the last three days. I was held hostage by some scammers for 40 hours… I have lost money, I have lost my mental health to this. I can’t believe this has happened to me,” he said in an emotional Instagram post.
How it all started
The nightmare began when Bahuguna received an automated international call from a number with a +1 prefix, claiming a courier delivery had been canceled. Thinking it was a genuine call, he pressed zero for support, connecting him to someone who accused him of being linked to a package containing illegal items, allegedly bound for China.
Despite denying involvement, the scammers claimed his Aadhaar number and personal details were tied to the package. They placed him under “digital arrest,” insisting he was a prime suspect in this case involving money laundering and drug trafficking.
The situation escalated further when the scammers transferred Bahuguna to a WhatsApp video call with someone posing as a police officer in uniform. They isolated him from friends and family, instructing him to turn off his devices and stay on continuous video calls.
Protect Yourself Against Scams
This alarming incident highlights the need for everyone to stay vigilant. Always verify the source of calls, especially those claiming to be from law enforcement or delivery services. Remember, legitimate authorities will never ask for sensitive personal information over the phone.
For more tips on staying safe online and protecting yourself from scams, visit Looffers.com. Your safety is paramount—don’t let scammers rob you of your peace of mind!
