365telugu.com online news,Hyderabad, August 6, 2025:HDFC Bank, India’s largest private sector bank, has issued an important advisory warning customers about the rising threat of APK (Android Package Kit) frauds. The initiative aims to raise public awareness and protect citizens from falling victim to these sophisticated scams.
What is APK Fraud?
In an APK scam, fraudsters impersonate bank officials, government representatives, or company staff to manipulate victims into downloading malicious APK files. These files, disguised as legitimate apps, give hackers complete access to the victim’s phone, enabling them to:
- Redirect calls and messages
- Steal sensitive personal and financial data
- Gain access to banking apps
- Execute unauthorised transactions
How the Scam Typically Works:
- Fraudsters pose as trusted authorities—bank employees, transport officials, or income tax officers.
- They contact victims via phone, SMS, or email, claiming urgent action is required for tasks like:
- KYC updates
- Payment of e-challans
- Income tax refunds
- The victim receives a fake APK link embedded with logos to appear genuine.
- Once clicked, malware silently installs on the victim’s device, giving the fraudster remote control.
- Within minutes, unauthorised transactions are carried out using stolen credentials.
Real-World Examples:
- Victims receive fake KYC update requests with a bank-branded APK link. Once installed, the app captures OTPs, card details, and other credentials.
- Fraudsters pretend to be from the RTO, sending e-challan payment messages. Clicking the link installs malware that compromises the phone.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Never click on suspicious links or download apps/files shared via SMS, email, or social media—even if they appear to be from official institutions.
- Install antivirus/anti-malware software on your device to block potential threats.
- Only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or official websites.
- Verify messages through the respective organization’s official website or customer care.
- Report suspicious messages or calls via the Chakshu portal (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/) or the Sanchar Saathi mobile app.
Other Common Frauds to Be Aware Of:
- Digital Arrest Scams: Victims are threatened with fake arrest warrants for alleged violations.
- Investment Scams: Fraudsters offer high returns via fake stock, IPO, or cryptocurrency platforms promoted through social media.
- These scams often use emotional manipulation through tactics like Greed, Threat, and Help (GTH) to deceive victims.
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What to Do If You’re a Victim:
- Immediately report unauthorised transactions to your bank to block payment channels (cards, UPI, net banking).
- Call the cyber fraud helpline 1930 (by the Ministry of Home Affairs).
- File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at:
https://www.cybercrime.gov.in