Tarnaka resident loses Rs. 7 lakhs in APK-based bank fraud involving fixed deposits and credit cards

Hyderabad: A 27-year-old resident of Tarnaka, Secunderabad, lost ₹7,05,049 in a financial fraud case on July 25, 2025. The victim received a phone call from an unknown individual claiming to be from a bank, discussing the auto-renewal of fixed deposits.

During the brief call, the victim received an SMS containing a link that led to the download and installation of an application named imobilelite.apk. Soon after, the victim began receiving SMS alerts about transactions and OTPs, but despite not sharing any OTPs, funds were automatically debited from the victim’s credit cards.

When the victim contacted ICICI Bank customer care to block the credit cards, they were informed that the fraudster had prematurely closed fixed deposit accounts and transferred the proceeds to the credit cards, which were then used to withdraw funds. The total loss amounted to ₹7,05,049. The victim has reported the matter to the Cyber Crime Police Station in Hyderabad.

Public Advisory:

Do not download or install APK files or click on links received from unknown or unsolicited sources. Never share OTPs, banking credentials, or personal information over the phone, even if the caller claims to be from your bank.

Always verify by calling the official customer care number listed on your bank’s website. Use official app stores (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) for installing or updating bank apps. Preserve all communications, including messages, call records, and transaction proofs.

Victims of cybercrime can dial 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in for assistance. For emergencies, contact or WhatsApp 8712665171. Awareness and prompt reporting remain crucial to preventing such frauds.