A Bengaluru traveller’s attempt to access an airport lounge turned into a costly lesson in cybersecurity when scammers exploited a seemingly innocent app download to steal thousands of rupees. Bhargavi Mani shared her experience in a viral video, warning others about the sophisticated fraud scheme at Bengaluru International Airport.
Bengaluru traveller loses Rs 87k in Airport Lounge Scam
The incident unfolded when Mani, carrying only a digital copy of her credit card, sought lounge access before her flight. Staff members directed her to download a “Lounge Pass” app and complete a facial scan, allegedly for security verification.
Though she ultimately chose Starbucks over the lounge, the damage was already done.
Here’s what happened at the airport lounge:
The first sign of trouble came when Mani noticed her phone wasn’t receiving calls. What initially seemed like a network issue revealed itself as something more sinister when unknown individuals began answering calls meant for her.
Further investigation uncovered unauthorized transactions totalling Rs 87,000, with funds transferred to a PhonePe account.
Cybersecurity experts’ stance on Airport Lounge Scam
Cybersecurity experts suggest the fraudsters likely used the malicious app to gain control of Mani’s phone, enabling them to intercept one-time passwords (OTPs) and execute unauthorized transactions.
Watch the video here:
In a follow-up video, Mani clarified that she doesn’t hold the airport authorities responsible, stating they have been actively assisting with the investigation. She has taken immediate action by reporting the incident to cybercrime authorities, notifying her bank, and blocking her compromised credit card.
Similar incident in Hong Kong
This incident highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals targeting travellers. In an unrelated but equally concerning case from Hong Kong, 59 individuals recently lost over Rs 2 crore in a naked video chat scam. Victims were coerced into compromising positions during video calls and then blackmailed with threats to release the footage online or to family members. The scammers successfully extracted HK$1.9 million in extortion payments.
These incidents serve as stark reminders of the importance of digital vigilance, particularly when downloading unfamiliar apps or sharing personal information in public spaces.
