Golden hour reporting helps Hyderabad victims get back ₹6.23 L in APK scam cases
Officials said early alerts enabled immediate coordination with banks and digital platforms, preventing irreversible financial loss
By - Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: In two swift operations, the Hyderabad City Cybercrime Police have recovered a total of Rs 6.23 lakh lost to APK-based cyber frauds, crediting the success to victims’ prompt reporting within the Golden Hour, the first hour after the crime.
Officials said early alerts enabled immediate coordination with banks and digital platforms, preventing irreversible financial loss.
Software engineer duped by fake ‘M-Parivahan’ App
A 26-year-old software engineer fell victim to a sophisticated scam after receiving a WhatsApp message prompting him to install a counterfeit “M-Parivahan” APK. Moments after installation, fraudsters executed multiple unauthorized transactions on his ICICI Bank credit card, totalling Rs 5.23 lakh.
The victim’s quick call to the 1930 Cyber Helpline and subsequent complaint on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) triggered rapid intervention by the Cybercrime Police. With the cooperation of ICICI Bank and Amazon Pay, the entire amount was successfully refunded.
Amberpet resident targeted with fake RBL bank APK
In another incident, a 53-year-old man from Amberpet was tricked into downloading a bogus RBL Bank APK, which secretly accessed his SMS inbox and captured OTPs. The scammers used the data to siphon Rs 1.25 lakh through online purchases.
Cybercrime Police acted swiftly on the NCRP complaint, blocking further transactions and coordinating with Flipkart and Mobikwik to cancel digital gift card orders. The intervention ensured a refund of Rs 1 lakh, significantly reducing the victim’s financial loss.
How malicious APKs work
According to investigators, malicious APK files can read SMS messages and OTPs, enable unauthorized credit/debit card transactions, and attempt to hijack WhatsApp accounts to spread malware further.
These apps often mimic trusted services like “M-Parivahan,” “RTO Challan.apk,” “CustomerCare.apk,” or bank applications and are circulated through WhatsApp, SMS, and social media.
Public Advisory: Report immediately, Install responsibly
Cybercrime Police reiterated that time is critical in digital fraud cases, and victims who report within the Golden Hour have the highest chance of recovering their money.
Safety Guidelines:
Download apps only from official app stores.
Never install APKs shared via links.
Do not disclose OTPs, PINs, or card details.
Avoid saving card information online.
Report incidents without delay to 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.
