The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has warned its personnel against online honey traps, suspicious APK files and financial fraud.
Why Has the SSB Issued the Warning?
The advisory was issued following the conclusion of the force’s cybersecurity awareness week, as part of efforts to strengthen digital safety among personnel.
The SSB warned that cybercriminals frequently use fake identities and emotional manipulation to establish trust before attempting to obtain personal, sensitive or financial information. Personnel have been advised to remain cautious while communicating with strangers online, avoid sharing private photographs or videos and refrain from responding to suspicious video calls or demands for money.
The force stressed that such interactions could expose individuals to financial fraud, misuse of personal information and other forms of online exploitation.
How Can Suspicious APK Files Put Devices at Risk?
The advisory specifically warned against installing Android Package Kit (APK) files received from unknown sources.
According to the SSB, such applications could compromise mobile devices and expose personal and banking information to cybercriminals. Personnel were advised to download applications only from trusted sources and avoid interacting with suspicious links or messages.
The warning also covered fraudulent calls and QR codes that could be used to deceive individuals into making unauthorised financial transactions.
What Precautions Should Personnel Follow?
The SSB instructed personnel never to disclose one-time passwords, personal identification numbers, account passwords or banking details to others. It emphasised verifying the authenticity of communications and financial requests before responding or transferring money. The advisory urged personnel to exercise caution even when callers or online contacts appear trustworthy.
The force summarised its message with a simple instruction: “Stop, think, check, then act.”
How Should Cyber Fraud Be Reported?
Personnel who encounter cyber fraud have been advised to report incidents immediately through the national cybercrime helpline, 1930, or the government portal, cybercrime.gov.in.
The advisory forms part of the SSB’s broader efforts to promote safe digital practices as cybercriminals increasingly exploit online communication platforms.
The SSB guards India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan and is responsible for preventing cross-border crimes, unauthorised movement and smuggling.
The SSB’s advisory highlights how online deception can begin with seemingly ordinary conversations, unfamiliar applications or financial requests. Verifying identities, avoiding suspicious downloads and protecting sensitive information remain essential precautions against honey traps, device compromise and financial fraud.
Follow for daily updates on cybercrime, corporate fraud, DFIR, hacking, investigations, and digital forensics
