YouTuber Ankush Bahuguna’s 40-Hour Ordeal: A Cautionary Tale of Digital Arrest Scams
In a distressing revelation, popular YouTuber and influencer Ankush Bahuguna, who commands a following of over 700,000, recently shared his harrowing experience of falling victim to a “digital arrest” scam. The incident, which lasted for 40 grueling hours, underscores the sophisticated methods employed by cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
The Ordeal Begins with a Phone Call
Ankush’s nightmare commenced with an automated call from an international number, informing him about a canceled courier delivery—a package he had no recollection of sending. Curiosity led him to press the prompted number to connect with customer service, a decision he now regards as a significant mistake.
Upon connecting, the scammers alleged that the package contained illegal substances and that his personal information was associated with it. They escalated the situation by transferring the call to an individual posing as a police officer via a WhatsApp video call. This impersonator accused Ankush of involvement in money laundering and drug trafficking, declaring him a prime suspect in a national investigation.
Psychological Manipulation and Isolation
The scammers employed high-pressure tactics to induce fear and compliance. They placed Ankush under “self-custody,” instructing him to remain on a continuous video call, keep all electronic devices turned off, and avoid any communication with family or friends. They threatened immediate arrest and harm to his loved ones if he failed to comply.
For 40 hours, Ankush was subjected to relentless psychological manipulation. The impostors played “good cop, bad cop,” breaking him down mentally. He was coerced into making multiple financial transactions and divulging personal information, all under the guise of clearing his name from the fabricated charges.
Breaking Free and Raising Awareness
The ordeal concluded when concerned friends, noticing his unusual behavior and uncharacteristic silence, intervened. They informed him about the prevalence of such “digital arrest” scams, prompting Ankush to realize he had been deceived. He subsequently shared his experience on social media to warn others about the dangers of cyber scams and the importance of vigilance.
The Rise of Digital Arrest Scams
Ankush’s experience is part of a growing trend of “digital arrest” scams in India, where cybercriminals impersonate law enforcement officials to intimidate victims into transferring money or revealing sensitive information. These scams have become increasingly sophisticated, with scammers often using technology to spoof official phone numbers and create fake documentation.
According to Delhi’s cyber police, there has been a significant rise in cyber fraud cases, with 61,525 complaints received until June 2024, marking a considerable increase from the 55,267 cases reported during the same period in the previous year. The data also shows that scammers stole ₹4.52 billion, a 158 percent increase from ₹1.75 billion in 2023.
Protecting Yourself from Cyber Scams
Ankush’s ordeal serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of cybersecurity awareness. To protect oneself from similar scams, consider the following measures:
- Verify the Source: Always verify the authenticity of unexpected calls or messages, especially those claiming to be from law enforcement or financial institutions.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not disclose personal or financial information over the phone or online unless you are certain of the recipient’s identity.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about common scam tactics and stay updated on emerging cyber threats.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam, report the incident to local authorities and seek professional advice.