Vizag Cyber Fraud: Over 12 Duped of Rs 25 Lakh via Fake PM-Kisan App
In a significant cybercrime incident, more than 12 residents of Visakhapatnam, commonly known as Vizag, have been defrauded of over Rs 25 lakh after installing a malicious mobile application masquerading as the official PM-Kisan app. The victims were targeted through WhatsApp messages from unknown numbers, which contained an Android Application Package (APK) file falsely linked to the government welfare scheme.
How the Scam Unfolded
According to police reports, a 30-year-old man approached the cybercrime police station in Vizag city and filed a formal complaint. He stated that in March, Rs 90,000 was fraudulently debited from his bank account through seven unauthorized transactions. His bank statement revealed multiple debits linked to various UPI IDs. A preliminary investigation found that the man received a message, clicked on the provided link, and inadvertently downloaded and installed the app. Shortly after, his phone malfunctioned, and within hours, the Rs 90,000 was withdrawn from his account.
Similar cases emerged, with nearly a dozen other individuals from different parts of the city losing amounts ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh after clicking on the same file. All victims have lodged complaints with the cybercrime police station, highlighting a coordinated fraud operation.
Police Warning and Modus Operandi
Police officials disclosed that cyber fraudsters are actively circulating APK files disguised as official PM-Kisan apps, enticing people to use them for registration or claiming additional benefits. Once installed, these malicious apps enable unauthorized transactions, compromising users' financial security. Authorities emphasized that people must exercise extreme caution when clicking on links received on their mobile devices.
Furthermore, police noted that cybercriminals employ various tactics beyond the PM-Kisan scam, including fake KYC updates, Aadhaar card updates, credit card limit increases, new credit card applications, and stock marketing or trading apps to lure victims into installing harmful links. They reiterated a stern warning: netizens should never click on suspicious links or grant permissions to sensitive information on their mobile or laptop devices to prevent such frauds.
Key Takeaways:
- Always verify the authenticity of apps, especially those related to government schemes.
- Avoid downloading APK files from unofficial sources or unknown messages.
- Regularly monitor bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
- Report suspicious activities to cybercrime authorities immediately.
This incident underscores the growing threat of cyber fraud in urban areas and the need for heightened public awareness to safeguard personal and financial data.
