Hyderabad: Amid a surge in Android Package Kit (APK) scams across Telangana, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGSCB) has issued an alert, urging citizens to stay vigilant against such cyber threats.
Shikha Goel, Director of TGSCB, highlighted that fraudsters are exploiting fake links associated with government schemes like PM-KISAN and PM YOJANA to target unsuspecting users on WhatsApp. “When users click on these fake links, an unauthorized application gets downloaded, compromising their mobile phones and leading to potential financial loss,” she said.
The TGSCB has advised the public to:
- Avoid clicking on unknown links and refrain from sharing them on social media or messaging platforms.
- Use only verified sources like official websites and trusted app stores such as Google Play Store for downloading applications related to government schemes.
- Verify app authenticity by checking reviews, permissions, and publisher details before installation.
To enhance security, Shikha Goel further recommended avoiding suspicious links sent through SMS, emails, or messaging apps.
What to Do if Targeted?
If users suspect fraudulent activity on their devices, they should:
- Uninstall the suspicious application immediately.
- Change passwords for any potentially compromised accounts.
- Report the incident to the authorities through the 1930 cybercrime helpline or the official website cybercrime.gov.in.
With APK scams on the rise, the TGSCB is calling for public cooperation to mitigate these threats and protect their digital safety.
