.jpeg "Cybercriminals Use Fake Wedding Invitations to Steal Money and Data in Lucknow")
In one recent case, Ratnesh, a resident of Jankipuram, received a wedding card link on WhatsApp from an unknown number. Believing it was just an invite, he clicked on it. Minutes later, ₹40,000 was stolen from his bank account. By the time he realised what had happened, the money was already gone, as reported by the Times of India.
Brajesh Kumar Yadav, in charge of the Cyber Crime Police Station, said the link was actually a spyware-laced APK file designed to attack Android phones. "Once the app is installed, it gives hackers access to everything — bank accounts, OTPs, contacts, personal files, and more," he explained.
The spyware doesn’t just steal money. It can also control the phone's camera, microphone, GPS, and messages — all without the user's knowledge. "The phone may look fine, but it’s secretly under the control of cybercriminals," Yadav added.
Two more similar incidents have been reported in Lucknow, but the victims have not yet filed official complaints.
Former IPS officer and cyber expert Triveni Singh warned users to be extremely careful. "APK files are not always dangerous, but it depends on where they come from. APKs from the Google Play Store are usually safe. But if you get a file from an unknown source, it could harm your device or steal your data," he said.
Police are urging everyone to avoid clicking on links or downloading files sent from unknown numbers — even if they look like genuine wedding invitations.
Stay safe:
• Never download APK files from unknown links.
• Do not click on WhatsApp links from unfamiliar contacts.
• Install apps only from trusted sources like Google Play Store.
• If something seems suspicious, report it immediately to cybercrime authorities.
Cybercriminals are getting smarter — so staying alert is more important than ever.
Tags:
Cyber News
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