Hyderabad: Rs 3 lakhs lost to phone hacking by malware recovered by swift response

Hyderabad: A victim of cybercrime managed to recover Rs 3 lakhs that were lost to phone hacking by persons claiming to call from HDFC bank.

Recovery was possible due to the prompt filing of complaints and quick action by the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) team of the Cyber Crime unit here.

According to police records, the victim received a call from persons claiming to represent HDFC Bank. The persons offered to increase the victim’s credit card limit which they agreed to.

The callers took the details of the credit card and other personal details and sent them an APK file on WhatsApp.

The victim was instructed to install the file on their phone. After doing so, multiple transactions totaling Rs 2,91,726 were made from the victim’s account, even without authorisation from an OTP!

Scammers used money on Amazon purchases

The victim immediately approached the police station. The NCRP team of Cyber Crime Unit Hyderabad identified the malware sent to the victim’s mobile and removed it.

They found that the malware gave access to scammers who made three purchases on Amazon using the victim’s money.

After the complaint was filed on November 2, notices were sent to authorities concerned immediately for blocking the funds. Due to the prompt action, the merchant refunded the total amount of Rs 2,91,726 to the victim’s HDFC credit card without a court order.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand commended the unit’s efforts in returning the money promptly.

Public advisory

- Don’t install any APK files forwarded or sent through WhatsApp by unknown persons or entities as this could compromise your phone.

- Never respond to emails and embed APK file links in messages and calls asking you to update or verify KYC documents pending.

- Never share user ID/password/debit card number/PIN/CVV/OTP etc with anyone. If done so, immediately change your credentials.

- Bank officials, financial institutions, the RBI and other genuine financial institutions will never ask customers to share confidential information.

- If you have any genuine doubt about the safety of your interests, it is advisable to physically visit your bank/finance institution.

If cybercrime is reported immediately, there is a chance of recovering at least a part of the total sum lost. Victims of cyber fraud can report immediately on the helpline number 1930 or file a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).