Hyderabad police warn LPG consumers against new cyber fraud involving APK files

Hyderabad Police warn LPG consumers of a new cyber fraud where malicious APK files are sent for fake KYC updates. The malware steals personal and banking information. Officials advise using only official platforms and reporting fraud via 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Portal.

Hyderabad: City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has warned citizens about a new cyber fraud targeting LPG consumers, where fraudsters are circulating malicious APK files by claiming they are required for gas connection KYC updates.

Taking to social media on Saturday, Sajjanar said cyber criminals were impersonating officials of LPG companies and contacting customers through phone calls, WhatsApp messages, or SMS. During the interaction, the fraudsters claim that the consumer’s gas connection details need urgent verification or KYC updating.

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As part of the scam, victims are sent a link or an APK file and asked to install the application on their phones. Once the file is installed, the app seeks personal information and banking details. The application is actually malware designed to steal sensitive data from the user’s device, he said.

Cybercrime officials explained that such APK files can gain extensive access to the phone after installation. The malware can read SMS messages, capture one-time passwords (OTPs), and monitor bank alerts, enabling fraudsters to carry out unauthorised financial transactions.

The city police reiterated that LPG distributors and government agencies do not send APK files for KYC updates or service-related communication.

Officials said consumers should rely only on official websites or authorised mobile applications to update their details. They advised the public to avoid downloading applications or clicking on links sent by unknown numbers.

Victims of cyber fraud can call cybercrime helpline – 1930 or lodge a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal.