Cybercriminals use fake APK files to steal banking data; Hyderabad police alert citizens

Hyderabad police warned the public about rising cyber fraud involving fake bank representatives and malicious APK links. Several victims lost large sums after installing fake apps or sharing banking details. Police urged citizens to avoid unknown links and report fraud immediately.

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad police have issued a public advisory following an increase in fraud involving fake bank representatives and malicious APK links.

The cybercrime unit advised the public to stay alert against scams involving fake APK (Android application) files circulated through WhatsApp, SMS, or social media links.

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“Fraudsters send links disguised as government services, RTO challans, mparivahan, banking apps, or rental services to trick users into installing malicious applications. Once installed, these apps gain control over the device and steal sensitive information like banking credentials, OTPs, and passwords, resulting in unauthorised money transfers,” said the police.

In one instance, a 58-year-old from Shakarganj was cheated by a caller posing as an SBI Credit Card officer who sent an APK file for “charge waiver,” following which Rs 1,72,899 was fraudulently debited from his card.

In another case, a 45-year-old resident of Amberpet received a call claiming to be from the IDFC credit card department offering a limit increase. After entering his card details in a link sent via WhatsApp, his calls were forwarded without his knowledge and fraudulent transactions worth Rs 2,95,096 were made using OTPs.

In the third case, a 48-year-old from Yakutpura lost Rs 2,26,800 after unknowingly installing an “RTO APK” that enabled unauthorised deductions from his bank account.

In another instance, a 52-year-old from Kalapathar was misled by a caller pretending to be from an insurance company who sent an IndusInd Credit Card APK. When the man clicked the link, multiple unauthorised transactions were carried out on his IndusInd and HDFC credit cards, causing a total loss of Rs 1,31,950.

“All these incidents occurred due to installation of fraudulent APK files and sharing of sensitive banking details, resulting in unauthorised debits,” the police said.

Public Advisory

• * Do not download or install APK files shared through unknown links, messages, or social media
• * Download apps only from official stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store
• * Avoid sharing banking details, OTPs, or card information on unverified websites or links
• * Do not allow remote access or screen-sharing permissions to unknown persons or apps
• * Regularly update your phone’s security settings and use trusted antivirus software
• * Report cyber frauds immediately on 1930 helpline or www.cybercrime.gov.in