Fake government apps drain Rs 4.85 lakh from Hyderabad citizens

Cybercriminals duped Hyderabad citizens of Rs 4.85 lakh using fake APK apps disguised as government services. Victims unknowingly installed apps like “RTO Challan APK” and “PM Kisan APK,” which hijacked their phones. Police urged citizens to download apps only from official stores.

Hyderabad: Cybercriminals are targeting citizens with fake APK applications disguised as government apps, leading to major financial frauds in the city.

Between September 16 and 20, three victims from Musheerabad, Chudi Bazar, and Bholakpur lost a total of Rs 4.85 lakh through unauthorised online transactions.

---

The victims had unknowingly installed malicious apps such as “RTO Challan APK,” “Court Order RTO APK,” and “PM Kisan APK,” which hijacked their phones and misused OTPs to siphon money from their bank accounts.

Cybercrime Police have warned the citizens not to download APK files received via SMS, WhatsApp, or social media, and to use only official app stores.

Victims of cyber fraud can call the 1930 helpline or report at http://www.cybercrime.gov.in.