Three residents of Noida have allegedly lost a combined ₹24 lakh in separate cyber fraud cases after being tricked into downloading APK files sent by people posing as bank employees and government officials. Police said the victims were approached on different pretexts, including credit card closure, income tax-related information and an electricity bill payment.
The victims allegedly downloaded the files on their mobile phones after receiving instructions from the fraudsters. Soon afterwards, money was transferred from their bank accounts without their authorisation. Complaints have been registered with the cybercrime police and investigations are underway.
₹8 Lakh Lost After Credit Card Closure Call
In one case, 69-year-old Rajesh Kapoor, received a phone call from a person claiming to be a bank employee. The caller offered to close his credit card and asked him to provide certain information.
According to the complaint, Kapoor was subsequently sent an APK file and asked to download it. After the file was installed, ₹8 lakh was allegedly withdrawn from his bank account. He approached the cybercrime police after discovering the unauthorised transaction.
Another case involved a 61-year-old retired railway employee, Hemant, Police said he received a phone call from a person who claimed to have information concerning Form 16.
The caller allegedly persuaded him to download an APK file. After obtaining information linked to his bank account, the fraudster allegedly transferred ₹9 lakh. The victim realised he had been cheated after receiving messages about the transactions.
Fake Electricity Bill Claim Costs Resident ₹7 Lakh
In the third case, 67-year-old Rajendra, received a phone call on February 6 from a person claiming to be an Income Tax official. The caller allegedly told him that his electricity bill was outstanding.
Under the pretext of showing him the pending bill, the caller sent an APK file and asked him to download it. Police said the victim’s banking information was subsequently accessed and ₹7 lakh was transferred from his account.
The three cases together resulted in alleged losses of ₹24 lakh. Police are examining the complaints and investigating how the fraudulent transactions were carried out.
Police Warn Against Downloading APK Files
DCP Cyber Security Preeti Yadav said cases have been registered on the victims’ complaints and investigations are underway. She said efforts are also being made to identify and arrest those responsible.
Police have advised people to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited calls involving banking, tax or bill-related matters. They have specifically warned users to verify information before opening or downloading files received through WhatsApp or other platforms.
Authorities have also cautioned that APK files should not be downloaded from unverified sources, regardless of the claims made by callers.
