Wed Sep 24 11:56:29 UTC 2025: **Summary of the text:**

Fraudsters in Hyderabad, India, stole over ₹4.85 lakh from three residents between September 16 and 20, 2025. The victims downloaded malicious APK files disguised as official apps (e.g., RTO challan, PM Kissan) onto their phones. These files allowed the fraudsters to access bank accounts, misuse OTPs, and steal sensitive data. The Hyderabad police have urged the public to only download apps from official app stores (Google Play or Apple App Store) and to report suspected fraud immediately via the 1930 helpline or cybercrime.gov.in.

**News Article:**

**Hyderabad Residents Duped of Lakhs in APK File Scam**

**HYDERABAD, September 24, 2025** – Three Hyderabad residents have lost a total of ₹4.85 lakh after falling victim to a scam involving malicious APK files. Between September 16 and 20, the individuals unknowingly downloaded fraudulent applications that compromised their mobile devices, granting criminals access to their bank accounts.

According to police reports, the victims downloaded APK files disguised as legitimate apps, including one related to RTO challans (“RTO-E_CHALLAN.APK”) and another related to government schemes (“PM Kissan APK”). After installing these files, the fraudsters were able to conduct unauthorized transactions, misuse one-time passwords (OTPs), and steal sensitive banking data.

A 47-year-old resident of Musheerabad lost ₹1.82 lakh from his HDFC Bank account, while a 54-year-old from Chudi Bazar lost ₹1 lakh from his Punjab National Bank account. A third victim, a 34-year-old from Bholakpur, reported unauthorised withdrawals totalling ₹2,03,873 from his Central Bank of India account.

The Hyderabad cyber crimes wing has issued a strong warning to the public, urging them to exercise extreme caution when downloading applications. They advise that users *only* install apps from official app stores like Google Play and the Apple App Store. They also cautioned users to be wary of unsolicited APK files received via SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media links.

“These fraudulent APK files are designed to mimic legitimate applications, but they contain malicious code that can compromise your device and your personal information,” stated a police spokesperson. “It’s crucial to verify the source of any app before installing it, and to stick to official app stores for your downloads.”

Victims of suspected financial fraud are urged to immediately contact the 1930 helpline or report the incident at http://www.cybercrime.gov.in. For urgent assistance, individuals can also call or WhatsApp 8712665171.

The Hyderabad police are continuing their investigation into these incidents and are working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

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