Thu Dec 25 14:32:33 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on it:
Summary:
On December 25, 2025, Eluru District Superintendent of Police (SP) K. Pratap Shiva Kishore issued a public warning about a surge in cybercrimes. He highlighted specific threats, including fraudulent “Parivahan RTO Chalan” APK files used to steal banking information, predatory instant loan apps that lead to harassment and blackmail, cryptocurrency scams promising high returns, and online investment schemes that initially pay out small profits to build trust before defrauding victims. The SP urged citizens to be vigilant, avoid sharing personal information, report suspicious activity, and contact the cybercrime helpline or national portal if victimized.
News Article:
Cybercrime Surge Prompts Warning from Eluru SP
Eluru, Andhra Pradesh – December 25, 2025 – Eluru District Superintendent of Police, K. Pratap Shiva Kishore, issued a stark warning to the public on Thursday, December 25th, 2025, concerning a significant increase in cybercrime targeting unsuspecting citizens.
The SP specifically cautioned against fraudulent APK files circulating on WhatsApp, disguised as “Parivahan RTO Chalan” applications. He explained that installing these malicious files allows cybercriminals to gain complete control of a user’s mobile phone, enabling them to steal sensitive data, including bank OTPs, and siphon funds from victims’ accounts.
“We urge the public to only pay traffic challans through official government websites or trusted applications,” said SP Shiva Kishore.
The SP also addressed the dangers of instant loan apps, which often prey on students and youth. These apps collect personal data and contact lists, charge exorbitant interest rates, and resort to harassment, blackmail, and even photo manipulation when borrowers struggle to repay.
Cryptocurrency-related scams were another focus of the warning. Scammers often lure victims with promises of high returns on fake or non-existent digital currencies. The SP also cautioned against the misuse of personal documents like Aadhaar and email IDs to open accounts for illegal transactions, potentially implicating innocent individuals.
Investment scams, where initial small profits are paid to build trust before victims are defrauded of larger sums under the guise of GST or processing fees, were also highlighted.
SP Shiva Kishore urged victims of cyber fraud to immediately contact the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or lodge complaints through the national cybercrime portal. He strongly advised citizens against sharing personal, banking, or OTP details with unknown individuals and to report any suspicious links to the police.
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