Presence of mind and timely action by a Vashi-based couple helped avert a major cyber fraud attempt after they were targeted with a malicious mobile application link falsely claiming that ₹15 lakh had been debited from their bank account for an online purchase.
The incident unfolded when Nisha Suvarna and Ravi Suvarna received a message on their mobile phones stating that a large sum had been deducted for a purchase made through an Amazon delivery application. Alarmed by the message, the couple was prompted to open an attached APK link to “verify” the transaction — a common tactic used by cyber fraudsters to gain unauthorised access to smartphones and banking details.
Sensing something amiss, the couple refrained from sharing screenshots or personal information and instead rushed to the local police station to report the incident. Their swift response enabled cyber crime personnel to step in before any financial damage could occur.
A preliminary probe revealed that the couple had been contacted by an unidentified caller posing as a customer service representative of the e-commerce platform. The caller insisted that the alleged debit could only be reversed if the APK link sent via message was installed and details shared immediately.
Investigators said such links typically contain malicious software designed to take control of a victim’s phone, monitor keystrokes, read messages, and access banking applications without the user’s knowledge.
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During technical examination of the devices, cyber experts confirmed that the APK link installed on the phone was suspicious in nature. As a precautionary measure, all three banks linked to the couple’s accounts were alerted immediately to verify whether any unauthorised transaction had been initiated.
Bank checks later confirmed that no amount had been debited and that the claim of a ₹15 lakh transfer was entirely false. The fraud attempt was thus neutralised before any monetary loss could take place.
Cyber crime officials said the case highlights a growing pattern in digital frauds, where scammers exploit panic by sending high-value debit alerts linked to well-known brands and platforms. Victims are then pressured to act quickly, often without verifying the source, leading to installation of malware or sharing of sensitive information.
Police said awareness played a crucial role in this case, as the couple had previously read about similar fraud methods and recognised the red flags — including unsolicited APK links, urgent calls, and requests for screenshots or banking access.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow basic cyber safety practices, particularly in cases involving alarming financial messages. People are advised never to install applications from unknown links, even if the message appears to be from a trusted brand. Any claim of unauthorised transactions should be verified directly through official bank helplines or authorised apps.
Cyber crime units across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have recorded a steady rise in cases involving fake e-commerce alerts, courier delivery messages, and refund scams. Fraudsters often rotate phone numbers and use temporary digital wallets to avoid detection.
Officials reiterated that genuine companies do not ask customers to download third-party applications or share screenshots of banking apps. Any such request should be treated as a potential fraud attempt and reported immediately.
The couple’s alertness, police said, serves as a reminder that quick reporting can prevent losses not just for individuals but also help law enforcement track emerging scam patterns.
Police have registered the information for further analysis and advised residents to contact the cyber crime helpline or visit the nearest police station if they receive similar messages.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
