Punjab National Bank (PNB) has warned customers about new cyber fraud methods, where scammers are distributing APK files via WhatsApp and text messages.
Leading public sector bank Punjab National Bank (PNB) has warned its customers against new methods of cyber fraud that scammers are adopting. The bank has issued an alert to customers following recent incidents where cybercriminals have been distributing APK files via WhatsApp and text messages.
As part of their modus operandi, scammers send a message or link to bank customers and upon clicking these links, control of the mobile device can be transferred to fraudsters, potentially leading to the theft of banking credentials and financial losses from customer’s account.
What is APK?
Android Package Kit, commonly known as APK, is the file format used by the Android operating system to install applications. While an APK file itself is not harmful, its safety largely depends on the source. Files downloaded from the Google Play Store are also in APK format, but they are generally secure due to the platform’s vetting process.
How does APK fraud happen?
Fraudsters send APK links via SMS or social media platforms like WhatsApp, making them appear as though they come from legitimate sources such as banks or government authorities. These messages often urge recipients to take immediate action, creating a sense of urgency to increase the likelihood of a response.
How to protect yourself against APK files?
APK files from untrusted sources can contain malicious code that infects your device, steals data, or causes other harm. This may include spyware that monitors your activities or ransomware that locks your files. Malicious APKs can also exploit vulnerabilities in your device’s operating system, potentially giving hackers control over your device.
PNB strongly advises its customers to be vigilant and avoid interacting with APK files or links from unknown sources. Follow these precautionary steps to protect yourself from cyber fraud:
Read More: What to do if loan recovery agents harass you? Know your legal rights
- Immediately ignore and delete any suspicious messages.
- Refrain from clicking on any links within these messages.
- Only install mobile apps from trusted sources, avoiding downloads through links or APK files.
- Never share payment details, including debit/credit card numbers, expiry dates, CVV, PINs, passwords, or OTPs. The bank will never request this information from you.
- Report any suspicious messages or apps to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at https://cybercrime.gov.in.
In case of cyber fraud, customers should immediately contact the National Cyber Crime Reporting Helpline at 1930 or file a complaint at https://cybercrime.gov.in. Additionally, customers can lodge complaints through the bank’s toll-free numbers at 18001800, 18002021, 18001802222, 18001032222, or 0120-2490000 to prevent further loss. For credit card-related fraud, customers may call the toll-free number 18001802345. These numbers are also listed on the back of debit/credit cards and on the bank’s website – https://www.pnbindia.in.
