Be Aware of a New APK Scam Targeting PNB Customers Circulating via WhatsApp
Be Aware of a New APK Scam Targeting PNB Customers Circulating via WhatsApp
Punjab National Bank (PNB) recently released a warning to its clients regarding a novel form of cyber fraud in which scammers are disseminating malicious APK files through WhatsApp and text messages. These files have the potential to result in financial losses and the misuse of banking credentials. PNB recommends that consumers remain vigilant, refrain from clicking on suspicious links, and promptly report any such incidents.
The Punjab National Bank (PNB) has issued a warning to its clients about a sophisticated type of cyber fraud that has been seen in recent times. This is an unsettling development that has occurred. In order to take advantage of people who are not paying attention, con artists are using APK files, which are frequently employed in the process of installing applications on Android devices.
These malicious APK files are being disseminated through popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp and through text messages, pretending to be normal communications from reliable sources. However, they are actually dangerous.
How the Scam Works?
The con artists’ method of operation consists of delivering links to APK files while pretending to be legitimate notifications from banks or government officials. This is how the scam is carried out. Many times, these communications generate a sense of urgency, which leads users to click on the links without giving them the appropriate amount of consideration.
After being installed, these APK files have the ability to grant cybercriminals control over the victim’s mobile device, which could result in the theft of important banking credentials and major financial losses.
What is an APK File?
Apk, which stands for Android Package Kit, is a file type that is utilized by the Android operating system for the purpose of installing and distributing programs. The safety of APK files is largely dependent on the source, despite the fact that APK files themselves do not necessarily pose any risks.
As a result of the rigorous screening procedure applied by the platform, APK files that are downloaded from the Google Play Store are generally safe to use. The files that come from unknown or untrusted sources, on the other hand, may include malicious code that can cause damage to the device or jeopardize the data of the user.
Risks and Protections:
Malicious APK files have the potential to introduce a wide range of threats to the user’s device, such as the installation of spyware, ransomware, or other forms of malicious software. However, there are also protections available through these files. These files have the potential to attack weaknesses in the operating system, which, in turn, gives hackers the ability to steal data, monitor activity, or lock the files on the device.
In order to protect themselves against these dangers, PNB has highly recommended to its customers that they:
Avoid clicking on suspicious links
Ignore and delete any unusual communications that include links to APK files or seek personal information.
Apps should only be installed from trusted sources
You should avoid downloading and installing applications by following links that are supplied through communications. Take advantage of official app shops such as Google Play.
Protecting individuals’ PII (Personally Identifiable Information)
Never, ever, ever send a message that contains sensitive information such as a debit or credit card number, CVV, PIN, password, or one-time password. It is important to note that PNB will never make a request for such information through these modes of communication.
Reporting and Immediate Action
In the sad event that a client falls victim to such fraud, PNB strongly encourages them to immediately report the incident by calling the National Cyber Crime Reporting Helpline at 1930 or by filing a complaint on the official website (https://cybercrime.gov.in). In addition, the bank has a number of toll-free numbers that consumers can call in order to prevent any further financial loss.
The preventive actions and advisory provided by PNB highlight the growing necessity of vigilance in the current digital age, which is characterized by the ongoing evolution of cyber risks. Keeping themselves informed and exercising caution are two ways in which customers can protect themselves from these new dangers.
About The Author:
Yogesh Naager is a content marketer who specializes in the cybersecurity and B2B space. Besides writing for the News4Hackers blogs, he also writes for brands including Craw Security, Bytecode Security, and NASSCOM.
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