Secunderabad man loses Rs. 1.7 lakh after installing fake RTA challan APK
Hyderabad: A 34-year-old resident of Secunderabad lost ₹1.72 lakh in a cyber fraud after downloading a malicious mobile application disguised as an official transport department app.
On July 16, the victim received a WhatsApp message containing an APK file named RTA CHALLAN.APK. Believing it to be a genuine app for checking traffic challans, he downloaded and installed the file, unknowingly compromising his personal data.
Two days later, on July 18 around 9:23 PM, the victim began receiving alerts of unauthorized debits from his HDFC bank account. He attempted to stop the transactions but soon realized his mobile phone had been remotely accessed. Additionally, all incoming calls to his number had been secretly forwarded to an unknown number.
Although he managed to disable the call forwarding and regain control of his device, a total of ₹1,72,625 had already been withdrawn from his account. The incident was reported to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).
Public Advisory:
Authorities have issued a warning urging citizens to remain cautious about fake government-related APK files, especially those circulated via WhatsApp or SMS.
Key safety guidelines include:
- Do not install APK files received through WhatsApp, SMS, or unfamiliar sources.
- Download apps only from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Never enter personal or banking details into unknown applications.
- Regularly check phone settings for unauthorized call forwarding.
- Enable two-factor authentication for banking and UPI applications.
- If your phone behaves unusually or you notice suspicious transactions, turn off mobile data and contact your bank immediately.
Victims of cyber fraud are advised to preserve all relevant communication and transaction records, and report the incident by calling 1930 or visiting cybercrime.gov.in. In case of emergencies, assistance is also available via WhatsApp or phone at 8712665171.