In a shocking turn of events, Bhargavi Mani became the target of a scam while trying to access a lounge at Bengaluru International Airport. Here’s a breakdown of her experience and the cautionary tale that follows.
What Happened? 🛫
While preparing for her flight, Ms. Mani, who didn’t have her physical credit card on hand, was directed by lounge staff to download an app for verification. This app, branded as “Lounge Pass,” required her to complete a facial scan for security purposes. Unfortunately, this was all part of a scam designed to steal her personal information.
Red Flags Ignored ⚠️
- Initial Miscommunication: After downloading the app, Ms. Mani opted for a coffee at Starbucks instead of using the lounge.
- Phone Issues: She later found herself unable to receive calls, initially dismissing it as a network problem.
- Realization of Fraud: The situation escalated when she noticed strangers were answering her calls, signaling that her phone had been compromised.
The Aftermath 💔
Upon further investigation, Ms. Mani discovered that over ₹87,000 had been fraudulently charged to her credit card and transferred to a PhonePay account. She suspects that scammers exploited the app to gain access to her phone, allowing them to redirect calls and intercept OTPs (One-Time Passwords) for unauthorized transactions.
Response from Authorities 📞
In a follow-up video, Ms. Mani clarified that she does not blame Bengaluru International Airport or its authorities. She confirmed that airport officials have reached out to assist her in resolving the situation. She has reported the incident to the cybercrime department, notified her bank, and blocked her card to prevent further loss.
A Word of Caution 🛡️
This incident highlights the growing prevalence of scams targeting unsuspecting travelers. Whether it’s downloading apps or sharing personal information, vigilance is key. Always ensure that you’re dealing with legitimate services, especially when it involves sensitive data like credit card information.
Similar Scams Alert 🚨
In another troubling case, 59 individuals in Hong Kong fell victim to a naked video chat scam, losing over ₹2 crore. Victims were lured into undressing during video calls, only to be blackmailed afterward. The Hong Kong police have since issued a warning, urging the public to remain vigilant against such schemes.
Stay Safe! 🌐
If you ever feel something is off, trust your instincts. Always verify the authenticity of services before providing personal information, especially in unfamiliar environments. 🛡️