The Dark Side of Instant Loans: Uncovering the Scam Plaguing India

Introduction: The promise seems instant, but the reality is a nightmare. In the past three years, over 60 Indians have tragically taken their own lives after falling victim to abuse and blackmail by loan apps. The BBC went undercover to expose the perpetrators behind this devastating scam.


The Trap is Set: Victims receive messages claiming instant loan approval; all they need to do is download an app and accept the terms. Unbeknownst to them, the app extracts personal information, including IDs, photos, and contacts, leading to extortion and harassment.

The Victim's Story: One victim, Bumi Sina, found herself trapped, borrowing from one app to pay another. Relentless calls and harassment pushed her to the brink. She shared her horrifying experience, including the app doctoring explicit photos of her and sending them to everyone she knew.

Inside the Scam: An undercover reporter, Poonam Agrawal, delved into the world of loan app scams. Working with a former recovery agent, Rohan, they infiltrated a call center, exposing the ruthless tactics employed to collect debts.

The Scammers Unmasked: Despite the challenge of identifying the culprits, the investigation revealed the developer behind the notorious app "Assan Loan." Criminal charges were filed against him, but he had vanished. Through persistent efforts, a connection was made to a mysterious businessman in Hong Kong, Leang, who profited from exploiting Indian contacts to recover loans.



Exposing the Scam: With evidence in hand, the reporter confronted Leang, who admitted his involvement in the exploitative practices. The investigation shed light on the intricate web of extortion, intimidation, and fear that powered the loan app scam industry.

The Insider's Revelation: Rohan, the insider, played a pivotal role in exposing the truth. While he had once been part of the scam, he helped uncover its operations, facing his own past in the process.

Conclusion: Despite the exposé, the scam persists, continuing to ruin lives. Victims like Bumi are left to pick up the pieces, haunted by their regret for ever getting involved. The investigation stands as a stark warning about the dangers lurking behind seemingly innocent offers of instant loans.