New Delhi: As discussions around the 8th Pay Commission gather pace and central government employees wait for clarity on possible salary revisions, cyber fraudsters have activated a new trap. Fake messages claiming to offer an “8th Pay Commission Salary Calculator” are circulating widely on WhatsApp and other messaging platforms, targeting employees and pensioners eager to know their revised pay.
The message promises instant access to updated salary figures. In reality, it carries a dangerous APK file link designed to compromise the user’s phone within minutes.
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An APK file is used to manually install Android applications. However, when such files are shared through messaging apps instead of official app stores, they bypass built-in security screening. This loophole is exactly what cyber criminals are exploiting.
Cyber experts warn that once the APK is installed, malicious software embeds itself into the device. The app may request permissions that appear routine, but in the background it can access SMS messages, intercept OTPs, monitor keystrokes and even gain entry into banking applications.
How the Trap Is Set
The fraud typically begins with a simple, convincing message: “8th Pay Commission to be implemented soon,” “Check your revised salary instantly,” or “Official government update.” The language is crafted to build urgency and trust at the same time.
Phrases like “Download now,” “Limited access,” or “Last chance” are often used to push users into acting quickly without verifying the source. A clickable link follows.
Once the APK file is downloaded and installed, the malware begins operating silently. In many reported cases, the phone continues to function normally, leaving the user unaware. Meanwhile, sensitive data such as bank account details, UPI information, passwords and verification codes may be transmitted to fraudsters.
By the time a debit alert reaches the victim, unauthorised transactions may already have been completed.
Why Government Employees Are Being Targeted
The 8th Pay Commission is expected to revise salary and pension structures for central government employees. Anticipation around possible pay hikes has naturally created curiosity. Fraudsters are exploiting this emotional trigger.
Salary-related information directly impacts income and financial planning. The desire to “know first” makes many users more likely to click on suspicious links. Cyber criminals rely on this combination of financial interest and urgency.
Pensioners, especially those less familiar with digital security practices, are also vulnerable targets.
Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore
- Any APK file shared through WhatsApp or SMS.
- Links sent from unknown numbers claiming to be official government portals.
- Poor grammar, spelling mistakes or exaggerated urgency in the message.
- Requests for OTP, UPI PIN, debit/credit card details or CVV.
No government department releases official salary calculation tools through random APK files shared on messaging platforms.
What You Should Do
- Check updates related to pay commissions only through official government websites.
- Download applications strictly from authorised app stores.
- Verify any claim before clicking on links.
- If a suspicious app has been installed, uninstall it immediately and scan the device using trusted security software.
- Inform your bank at once if you suspect unauthorised activity and report the incident to cyber crime authorities.
What You Should Never Do
- Never share OTP, UPI PIN, CVV, card PIN or banking passwords with anyone.
- Do not click on unknown links, even if forwarded by a contact.
- Avoid trusting messages marked as “Forwarded many times.”
Digital fraud is becoming more targeted and sophisticated. A single careless click can expose your entire financial life.
Curiosity about your revised salary is natural. But before tapping on any unofficial link promising instant calculations, pause and verify.
The hurry to check your pay should not cost you your life savings.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
