Thiruvananthapuram: Citizens across Kerala are being urged to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited .apk files on their smartphones, especially those posing as applications from the Motor Vehicles Department or other government agencies. The Kerala Police have issued a detailed warning after an increase in reports of cyber scams involving such malicious application packages.
According to cyber experts and law enforcement authorities, these .apk files often appear to be sent by trusted contacts through messaging apps like WhatsApp or social media platforms. However, once downloaded and installed, they allow cybercriminals to take complete control of the victim’s device. This enables them to access sensitive data, including banking credentials, and initiate unauthorized financial transactions.
The fraud typically begins with a user unknowingly installing a seemingly harmless application, often under the pretense of a service update or official notification. In reality, the app contains hidden malware that monitors the user’s activities, collects data, and transmits it to hackers. Once control is established, the scammer can easily infiltrate banking apps installed on the device and drain funds from the associated accounts.
What makes this scam even more dangerous is its viral nature. The malware doesn’t just stop at a single victim. It uses the infected phone to send similar .apk files to the user’s friends, family, or colleagues, making it appear as though the message comes from a reliable source. This chain reaction spreads the scam rapidly across digital networks.
The Kerala Police have emphasized that such .apk files should never be downloaded or installed, regardless of the source. Users are advised to avoid installing apps from unknown sources and instead rely exclusively on verified platforms like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Moreover, Android users should disable the option to install apps from “Unknown Sources” in their phone settings to add an extra layer of security.
Victims of such scams, or those who come across suspicious digital behavior, are urged to take swift action. The public can contact the national cyber crime helpline by dialing 1930 or file a report through the official government cybercrime portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in. Early reporting can significantly help in mitigating losses and preventing the spread of the malware.
The Kerala Police's advisory is a crucial reminder of the growing sophistication of cyber fraud in India. With smartphones becoming the hub of both personal and financial information, a single careless click can result in devastating consequences. Citizens are encouraged to remain cautious, verify all app downloads, and spread awareness to protect others from falling prey to such digital deceptions.