As people gear up to welcome New Year 2026 with celebrations, travel plans and a flurry of digital greetings, cyber criminals are stepping up their operations with renewed intensity. Fraudulent links, e-cards and APK files sent in the name of New Year wishes have emerged as one of the most potent tools of cyber fraud across the country.
Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh has cautioned that cyber fraud cases spike sharply around the New Year, a period when users are emotionally relaxed, socially active and digitally less vigilant.
According to him, a single careless click can give cyber criminals complete control over a smartphone, allowing them to siphon money from bank accounts, digital wallets and access sensitive personal data within minutes.
Digital Greetings Becoming the Most Effective Cyber Weapon
Prof. Triveni Singh explains that in the days leading up to New Year, platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Telegram and email see a sudden surge in greeting messages. Cyber criminals exploit this clutter by sending attractive messages like “Happy New Year 2026,” “A Digital Gift for You,” “Special E-Card,” or “New Year Surprise.”
These messages typically contain a link or an attached APK file. Once clicked, malware or spyware silently installs itself on the device.
“People believe they are opening a greeting card, but in reality, they are handing over the keys of their phone to cyber criminals,” Prof. Singh says.
APK Files: One Click and the Phone Is No Longer Yours
According to Prof. Triveni Singh, APK files remain the most dangerous weapon in cyber fraud operations.
“Once an APK file is installed, cyber criminals can view the screen, read messages, capture OTPs and gain direct access to banking applications,” he explains.
This is precisely why many victims remain unaware of how or when money was withdrawn.
“The phone stays in your hand, but its control shifts elsewhere,” Prof. Singh warns.
Unknown Social Media Friendships Turning into Cyber Traps
Analyzing recent cyber crime patterns, Prof. Triveni Singh notes that fraud is increasingly relationship-driven rather than link-driven.
“In many cases, criminals first establish contact through social media. Fake profiles are created, conversations are built gradually, trust is established, and only then is the malicious link sent—often on special occasions like New Year,” he says.
Because the sender appears familiar, users lower their guard and click without verification, triggering the fraud.
Expert View: ‘Digital Excitement Is Cyber Criminals’ Biggest Advantage’
Former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh believes festivals and celebrations provide the ideal operating environment for cyber criminals.
“In moments of digital excitement and emotional engagement, people ignore basic cyber hygiene. That lapse is the biggest strength of cyber criminals,” he says.
His message is unequivocal:
“No bank, government authority or legitimate company will ever ask you to click a link, share an OTP or download an app. If a message asks you to do so, it is a scam—without exception.”
Essential Safety Measures for the New Year
Prof. Triveni Singh emphasizes that cyber safety is not complicated—it simply requires digital discipline. He advises users to follow these precautions rigorously:
- Do not click on links or APK files received from unknown numbers or profiles
- Never download unverified or unfamiliar applications
- Strengthen privacy settings on social media accounts
- Verify messages claiming to be from banks or institutions through official channels
- Never share OTP, CVV, PIN or banking credentials
- Avoid digital gifts, prize offers or surprise rewards
“One moment of caution can protect a lifetime of savings,” Prof. Singh stresses.
What to Do If You Suspect Cyber Fraud
According to Prof. Triveni Singh, time is the most critical factor in limiting financial damage.
“If there is even a suspicion of fraud, delaying action is the biggest mistake,” he says.
Immediate steps include:
- Calling the 1930 Cyber Helpline without delay
- Filing a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
- Informing the concerned bank immediately
“The first 24 hours are crucial. This is the window when blocking or recovering funds is most likely,” he explains.
Awareness Is the Strongest Cyber Shield
Prof. Triveni Singh believes that while technology is advancing rapidly, cyber criminals are evolving just as fast.
“The simplest way to stay ahead is awareness,” he says. “You don’t need technical expertise—just skepticism.”
A careless click amid New Year celebrations can wipe out years of hard-earned savings.
So accept greetings—but with caution, ensuring the New Year begins with peace of mind, not financial distress.
