Scammers are posing as water board officials to extort money by sending malicious APK files disguised as bill updates. Fraudsters call citizens claiming unpaid water bills and threaten disconnection unless immediate payment is made.
Victims are then sent a file named “HMWSB WATER BILL UPDATE.apk” and persuaded to install it on their mobile phones. These schemes exploit routine utility concerns to gain access to personal devices and financial data.
APK Grants Full Device Control
Officials said that once the APK file is installed, scammers gain complete control over the victim’s device. This allows them to divert calls, monitor screen activity, and access sensitive information, including OTPs used for banking transactions, leading to financial losses within minutes.
Such malware not only compromises individual accounts but also enables broader fraudulent activity through stolen credentials.
The rapid execution of these attacks leaves little time for victims to react, underscoring the need for immediate verification of any unsolicited payment demands.
Hyderabad Police Urge Vigilance
The alert was issued by the Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar via social media, urging citizens to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to such tactics. Residents have been advised not to download or install APK files received from unknown sources.
Authorities stressed that water bills should only be paid through official platforms of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board (HMWSB).
In case of suspicious calls, citizens are urged to report the matter immediately to the police. Victims of cyber fraud can dial 1930 or lodge a complaint on the official cybercrime portal.
Awareness Key to Prevention
Police reiterated that awareness and caution are key to preventing such cybercrimes and urged the public to verify all payment-related communications before taking any action. These frauds prey on urgency around essential services, but sticking to verified channels ensures safety. Public education remains the first line of defense against evolving digital threats.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
