Don’t download fake traffic challan APKs from WhatsApp groups, warns TGCSB chief Shikha Goel
Fraudsters are circulating links labelled as ‘RTO Traffic Challan.apk2’ mainly during evening hours to trap unsuspecting users
By Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: Cybercriminals have come up with a new method to dupe citizens by sending fake traffic challan APK files through WhatsApp groups, warned Telangana Cyber Security Bureau Director Shikha Goel.
Dangerous APK links are being sent
According to the bureau, fraudsters are circulating links labelled as ‘RTO Traffic Challan.apk2’ mainly during evening hours to trap unsuspecting users. If anyone downloads and installs these APK (Android Package Kit) files, their entire phone comes under the control of cybercriminals.
Banking and credit card details at risk
Once the malicious app is installed, fraudsters can steal banking and credit card information, carry out remote transactions, and siphon money from bank accounts and credit cards without the user’s knowledge.
They can even block SMS alerts related to financial transactions to avoid detection.
Download apps only from the Google Play Store
Shikha Goel urged citizens not to download APK files received from unknown WhatsApp numbers. She advised that apps should be installed only from the Google Play Store and users must enable OTP options for all credit card transactions to prevent unauthorised use.
Report suspicious activity immediately
People are also advised to block their cards immediately in case of any suspicious activity. Victims of such cyber frauds can report to the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or send complaints via WhatsApp to the Telangana Cyber Fraud Registry at 8712672222.
