Several residents across Hyderabad have fallen victim to a new wave of cyber frauds involving malicious APK files shared through WhatsApp and SMS links, leading to unauthorised withdrawals from their bank accounts.
In one case, a 29-year-old man from Domalguda installed an application named, pmkisan.apk, believing it to be linked to a government scheme. Soon after, ₹1 lakh was fraudulently debited from his bank account.
In another incident, a 41-year-old resident of Mangalhat received a WhatsApp link to download RTO e-challan.apk. After installation, his net banking credentials were compromised, resulting in unauthorised transactions totalling ₹1.47 lakh.
A third victim, while searching online for car rentals, was directed to a fake website. After paying ₹149 as confirmation fee, a malicious app named shriramcarrentals.apk was automatically installed on his phone. Fraudsters then made continuous debits that totalled ₹2.60 lakh.
Investigators said the cases reflect a growing trend where fraudsters disguise harmful apk files as legitimate government, transport, or business services to steal banking credentials and drain victims’ accounts.
The Cybercrime Unit has urged media outlets to help spread awareness, warning citizens not to download or install apk files received through WhatsApp, SMS, or social media. Officials explained that once installed, such apps can remotely access devices, intercept messages and OTPs, and transfer money without the victim’s knowledge.
Police issued the following safety advisory: never download APK files from unverified links; install apps only from official app stores; avoid sharing banking details, OTPs, or passwords with unknown sources; and refrain from granting screen-sharing permissions to strangers or unverified apps. Citizens are also advised to keep their phone security updated and use trusted antivirus software.
Victims of cyber fraud can report incidents immediately on the national helpline 1930 or at www.cybercrime.gov.in. For emergencies, Hyderabad Cybercrime Police can also be reached on WhatsApp at 8712665171.
Published – October 31, 2025 11:11 pm IST
