/newsfirstprime/media/agency_attachments/2025/07/28/2025-07-28t111554609z-2025-07-23t100810984z-newsfirst_prime_640-siddesh-kumar-h-p-1-2025-07-23-15-38-10-2025-07-28-16-45-54.webp)
Follow Us
/newsfirstprime/media/media_files/2025/12/31/apk-links-malware-new-year-wishes-2025-12-31-15-50-12.jpg)
Photograph: (AI)
The Bengaluru City Police and Karnataka CID have issued a cyber safety alert, warning people against clicking on links attached to festive greetings, as fraudsters use fake APK files to steal personal and financial data.
The Bengaluru City Police (BCP), along with the Karnataka Criminal Investigation Department (CID), has cautioned citizens to stay alert against a rising cyber scam linked to festive greetings circulating online.
In a recent advisory, the police said cybercriminals are targeting users by sending malicious links disguised as celebratory messages. These links often carry harmful third-party Android Package Kits (APKs), which can compromise mobile phones once downloaded.
Also Read:New Year countdown: Tight security, door-frame checks on MG Road and Brigade Road
According to the police, scammers are widely sharing these fake links through popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Instagram. In some cases, the links are also sent via email or SMS. The messages are designed to look genuine and usually promise special offers, refunds, festive gifts or important updates to lure users into clicking them.
Once a user downloads and installs these APK files, the malware can access sensitive information stored on the phone. This includes personal details, banking information and other financial data, putting users at serious risk of fraud and identity theft.
Also Read:New Year countdown: Tight security, door-frame checks on MG Road and Brigade Road
The police have specifically advised citizens not to click on links attached to photos or videos, even if they appear to come from known contacts. People have also been warned against downloading festive images or greeting files shared in document formats, as these are increasingly being used to hide malicious software.
Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious during festive seasons, when such scams see a sharp rise, and to verify messages before clicking on any links or downloading files.
