In Hyderabad, a 34-year-old man lost Rs 1.72 lakh to a cyber scam after downloading a fake mobile app that appeared as an official transport department tool.
On July 16, he received a WhatsApp message with an APK file called “RTA CHALLAN.APK”. Thinking it was a legitimate app for traffic challans, he installed it, unknowingly putting his personal data at risk, as reported by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB).
Two days later, on July 18, alerts of unauthorized withdrawals from his HDFC bank account began. He tried stopping the transactions but discovered his phone was remotely accessed, and his calls were secretly redirected to another number.
Though he managed to stop the call forwarding and regain control of his device, Rs 1,72,625 had already been taken. He quickly reported the issue to the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.
The Cyber Security Bureau has issued a warning, advising people to be very careful about fake government-related APKs, especially those shared via WhatsApp or SMS.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau strongly advises against installing APKs from unknown sources like WhatsApp or SMS. They recommend downloading apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. They also advise against entering personal or banking information into unfamiliar apps, checking for unauthorized call forwarding, and using two-factor authentication for banking and UPI apps. If a phone acts strangely or suspicious transactions occur, users should disable mobile data and contact their bank immediately.
Victims of cyber fraud should keep all communication and transaction records and report the issue by calling 1930 or visiting cybercrime.gov.in. For immediate help, reach out via WhatsApp or phone at 8712665171.
