Hyderabad: Five city residents aged between 38 and 68 fell victim to a growing APK fraud in Telangana, losing large sums after installing harmful APK files on their phones. Cybercriminals pushed these files through social media and tricked users into giving full access to their banking details.
A 62-year-old man lost ₹1.72 lakh after installing a fake Kotak Bank credit card APK. Another case involved a 44-year-old who clicked an e-Parivahan link and lost ₹2.24 lakh. A 38-year-old installed an insurance deactivation APK and lost ₹1.09 lakh, while another victim lost ₹1.24 lakh in a similar scam. In the most serious case, a 68-year-old who downloaded a Union Bank life certificate verification APK lost ₹10 lakh. Police said criminals used APK files as the key tool, taking advantage of people’s needs and urgency.
APK fraud in Telangana triggers strong police warning
Cybercrime officers advised citizens to stay alert whenever unknown APK (Android Package Kit) files appear on their phones. They warned that a single tap could expose the entire device. Moreover, scammers developed APKs linked to trending public issues and spread them through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram.
They circulated APKs disguised as PM-Kisan updates, RTA challans, Operation Sindoor forms, and various banking services. Police explained that opening these files gives fraudsters full access to stored phone data, including bank accounts and passwords. Ethical hackers urged users to download apps only from the Google Play Store. They added that even the Play Store may contain unsafe apps and advised careful checks before installation. Officers told victims to call 1930 immediately if they notice any suspicious withdrawals.
Trader loses ₹4 lakh through hidden APK files
A trader from Malkajgiri found ₹4 lakh missing from his Union Bank account and credit cards. He later discovered several unknown APK files, such as RTO Challan APK and PM-Kisan Yojana APK, on his phone. He said he had never downloaded them. After realising the connection, he filed a complaint with the Rachakonda Cybercrime Police. Officers registered a case and began an investigation.