Stay alert, fake apps give access to your phone: Cops
Times of India | 15 December 2024
Kolkata: Cyber sleuths of Kolkata Police have come across a new modus operandi adopted by cybercriminals in which they hack WhatsApp profiles and email accounts of the victims, who fall prey to fraudulent applications named after popular online grocery or medicine stores. Cops said the fraudsters were luring the victims to download such fake applications by claiming to offer lucrative discounts and additional benefits against online purchase of various items.
"Just like any other android application on Playstore, these fake apps also seek permission for installation on any device after being downloaded. Once the user grants the necessary permissions,these apps allow remote access to the fraudsters, who take control of the victim's device," explained a senior police officer. This helps the fraudsters hack the email or WhatsApp accounts, following which they blackmail the victim with threats of making abusive posts or using their accounts for criminal activities.
In one such instance, cops said an IT professional from Tollygunge had received an Android Package Kit (APK) file on Friday. The app claimed to secure her netbanking system. But as soon as she downloaded the app, her WhatsApp was hacked. The victim was then asked to pay 400 dollars for regain access to her account.
Sources claimed programmers familiar with the Android system can prepare such application files. "We have evidence that the cyber fraudsters are paying the developers anything between Rs 40,000-80,000 to develop such software," said an investigating officer. What makes the victims more vulnerable is the fact that the fraudsters now no longer need any OTP to fulfil their motives. "Now, merely giving access to such apps is enough for the hackers to control your device," explained an officer.
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