Sambalpur: Cyber Fraud in the Name of “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Yojana”; Rs 6.68 Lakh Deducted from Account After Opening APK File

Sambalpur: Be cautious! If you receive an online link labeled as an APK file on WhatsApp, do not click on it. A single careless click can link your phone to your bank account and lead to financial fraud. Recently, a Sambalpur resident became a victim of cyber theft, losing Rs. 6.68 lakh from four different accounts. The local cyber police have registered a case regarding this incident.

How the Fraud Happened

A resident of Sambalpur received an APK file link claiming to provide details about the “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Yojana.” Thinking it was related to government schemes, he clicked on the link. Following this, the scammer gained unauthorized access to his phone and its linked accounts. The fraudsters withdrew money systematically:

1. Rs. 5,000 was taken from his savings account.
2. Rs. 65,000 was withdrawn from a current account.
3. Two major amounts, Rs. 4.98 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh, were debited from loan accounts.

Delayed Awareness of the Fraud

Initially, the victim received a message about the Rs. 5,000 withdrawal. However, no further transaction alerts came for the other debits. It was only after visiting the bank that he discovered the full extent of the fraud. He then filed a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Helpline, leading to a case being lodged at Sambalpur’s Cyber Police Station.

Scammers Target Government Schemes

According to cyber police officials, cybercriminals are exploiting public trust in government welfare schemes. They often use the names of schemes to send malicious APK files. By clicking on these files, victims unknowingly grant the scammers access to sensitive information like phone numbers and bank account details.

Modus Operandi of the Fraudsters

The scammers utilize tools such as phone numbers linked to accounts, UPI apps like Google Pay, and other digital payment methods to siphon off money. Once they gain access, they exploit every possible financial connection.

How to Stay Safe

Avoid clicking on suspicious links and always verify the source, especially if they promise benefits related to government schemes. If you suspect fraud, report it promptly through the National Cyber Crime Helpline to take immediate action. Stay alert by regularly monitoring your bank accounts for unauthorized transactions and discrepancies. Additionally, educate yourself about the methods cybercriminals use to trick people to better safeguard your financial and personal information.

The cyber police urge everyone to be vigilant and exercise caution while handling online communications to avoid falling victim to such scams.