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New Year scam alert: A single click can empty your bank account, cyber police warn

As New Year celebrations begin, cyber security officials warn that greeting messages, shopping offers and event links may hide dangerous scams. A single click can install malware and give fraudsters access to bank details and personal data.

By NES Web Desk

Dec 30, 2025 19:45 IST

The English New Year is at our doorstep. At this time, the entire world gets immersed in celebrations. Countless messages are exchanged on mobile phones and various messaging apps to convey good wishes. It is precisely at this time that many unknown or barely known people also send messages. Not only that, links to various events, ticket offers, and online shopping discount links are also sent. And it is exactly at such times that fraudsters lie in wait. Danger can lurk behind an apparently harmless link. If clicked without understanding, it won't take long for bank accounts to be emptied. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has issued such a warning.

Although the police of this southern state have issued such warnings, similar incidents have occurred across the country. Therefore, not just that state, but residents of any part of the country need to be cautious.

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How do fraudsters operate?

According to the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, first a harmless message is sent on WhatsApp, Telegram, or any social messaging app. It may contain New Year greetings. Or there may be the lure of an attractive gift for shopping. The moment that person clicks on that message, they will get caught in the web of fraud. An Apk file will be installed on the mobile in the backend. This will not only steal mobile information, but all control of that mobile or device will pass into the hands of the fraudster.

What dangers arise when fraudsters gain control of the phone?

Fraudsters will be able to see all phone information

Chats from any messaging app will fall into their hands

Fraudsters will know any information including messages and OTPs for bank transactions

Fraudsters will try to hack phones by sending messages with this link to others in the contact list

That person may become a victim of extortion or blackmail

What steps should be taken?

TGCSB has stated that several steps should be followed to avoid this danger

No link should be clicked, no matter how tempting the offer

Apk files sent through any messaging app should not be downloaded

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Two-step verification system should be activated

Apps should be upgraded from the official Google Play Store or iOS

If you realize you have become a victim of any cyber fraud, you must file a complaint with the relevant cyber security department as quickly as possible

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