Mon Nov 03 18:11:02 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article version:

Summary:

A Bengaluru-based businessman had his WhatsApp account hacked after receiving a suspicious call about a pending parcel. The hacker then impersonated him to friends and relatives, requesting and receiving approximately ₹1.7 lakh via UPI under false pretenses. A police complaint has been filed, and authorities are investigating the cybercrime.

News Article:

Bengaluru Businessman Falls Victim to WhatsApp Hack, Friends Scammed of ₹1.7 Lakh

Bengaluru, November 3, 2025 – A Bengaluru businessman is the latest victim of a sophisticated WhatsApp hacking scheme that has defrauded his friends and relatives of ₹1.7 lakh. The incident, reported to cybercrime police on Saturday, highlights the increasing vulnerability of digital communication platforms to malicious actors.

The victim, whose name is being withheld by authorities, received a missed call from an unknown number on Friday. Upon returning the call, the individual claimed to be from a reputable courier company and cited an issue with a pending parcel, providing a customer service number for further assistance.

Tragically, dialing the provided number resulted in the immediate compromise of the businessman’s phone and WhatsApp account. The hacker then exploited access to the victim’s contact list, sending messages posing as him and urgently requesting financial assistance due to a fabricated emergency. Unsuspecting contacts, believing they were helping a friend in need, transferred funds to various UPI accounts provided by the fraudsters.

The cybercrime police have launched an investigation and are currently tracking the money trail to identify the perpetrators. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant against unsolicited calls and messages, particularly those requesting personal information or financial assistance. They advise verifying the authenticity of such requests through independent channels before taking any action. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of cyber fraud and the need for heightened awareness and caution in the digital age.

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