Terrifying Airport Scam: Woman Narrowly Escapes Fake Cab Driver’s Extortion Plot at Bengaluru Airport

In a concerning incident at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, a woman narrowly escaped a dangerous situation after mistaking an unauthorized driver for her booked Ola cab. This episode has sparked serious questions about safety and protocols for ride-hailing services at the airport.

A Routine Ride Turns Ominous

After arriving at the airport late at night, the woman headed to the Ola pickup zone for a pre-booked ride. She was approached by a driver who claimed to be from Ola, though she had initially reserved a different vehicle type. Assuming he was legitimate due to his access to the authorized pickup zone, she got into his car.

However, red flags soon appeared. The driver did not request the typical OTP verification and lacked the official Ola app, instead asking her to input her destination on his personal navigation app. As the journey continued, the driver began demanding extra fare. When she refused, he alarmingly suggested she switch to another vehicle, further raising her suspicions.

A Quick Call for Help Averts a Worse Outcome

As the situation escalated, the driver stopped at a fuel station, demanding ₹500 for fuel. Alarmed, the woman acted swiftly, dialing 112, India’s emergency police number, while keeping a friend updated on the phone. Bengaluru police promptly arrived, detaining the driver and bringing the woman back to safety.

The passenger later shared her experience on social media, emphasizing her relief and gratitude for the quick police response, yet expressing frustration over the airport’s apparent security lapses. Her story quickly gained traction online, with many others voicing similar concerns about airport safety.

Airport Safety Measures and Ride-Hailing Protocols Under Scrutiny

This disturbing incident has sparked a larger conversation about airport security and the protection of travelers, especially those arriving late at night in unfamiliar areas. Many passengers feel ride-hailing platforms and airport authorities should better vet drivers granted access to secure pickup areas to prevent impersonators from targeting unsuspecting travelers.

Public Reactions: Growing Calls for Action

The social media post describing the incident has received an outpouring of empathy and concern. Many users shared personal accounts of unsafe rides, urging for stricter protocols at airports. One user remarked, “It’s unsettling to think we can’t feel safe even at a secure airport location. Stronger security measures are a must.” Another added, “BLR Airport and ride-hailing services need to be more vigilant. Allowing unauthorized drivers into the pickup zone puts everyone at risk.”

The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures

Incidents like these are a wake-up call for both authorities and ride-hailing companies to reassess their safety protocols, especially in high-traffic and vulnerable locations like airports. Travelers must also be encouraged to stay alert and use verification steps to confirm their rides, even when in a seemingly secure zone.