The New Year is a time for joy, resolutions, and warm wishes from friends and family.
But among multiple warm greetings and wishes on messages imagine a situation where you receive a heartfelt “Happy New Year!” text from an unknown number. It’s accompanied by a link to download a cute-looking app promising personalized greetings or festive wallpapers. Harmless, right? Think again.
This link could be a malicious APK file that could hack your device and share all the stored information with the scammer. In a blink of an eye that warm greeting could turn into the biggest nightmare.
Here are the complete details of how scammers are reaching out to your info on this festive season and tips to protect yourself.
The APK File Scam
Just imagine a scenario where you receive a message with a link from an Unknown number and due to curiosity, you can’t resist clicking it.
But as soon as it’s installed, you notice something odd. You start getting notifications of unauthorized transactions.
Before you could understand, that that link and apk file were not a fun greeting app, but a gateway of cyber fraud, all your money is credited to the scammer’s account.
With the link and apk file, the scammer gets the:
- Access your private information: They can dig into your contacts, banking details, and other personal data.
- Perform unauthorized transactions: The apk and installed app provide access to OTPs and your bank accounts or social media profiles.
- Hijack your phone: Sometimes, the picture is much bigger than it seems. Your device could be used for spreading malware or conducting larger attacks.
What You Can Do:
- Don’t click links from unknown senders, even if they look festive.
- Download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store.
- Double-check with the sender if you receive an unexpected message with an attachment or link.
- Use antivirus software to scan your phone regularly.
Other Scams to Watch Out For On this Festive Season
The APK scam is just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s dive into other ways cybercriminals are reaching out to people during the festive season:
1. Fake Money Requests for Bank Account Updates
Scammers target people by sending texts and emails that say, “Your account will be blocked unless you update your KYC details now.”
The link provided looks like it’s from your bank, so you rush to update your information. But before you know it, fraudsters have stolen your credentials and wiped your account clean.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Never click on links in messages claiming to be from your bank.
- Always verify with your bank through official channels if something seems off.
- Look for red flags like unfamiliar URLs.
2. Hotel and Restaurant Booking Scams
You’re planning a New Year’s Eve dinner or a staycation and found a great deal on one of the websites.
Without any second thought, you book it immediately, paying in advance. But when you show up at the venue, you find out your reservation doesn’t exist.
Scammers are setting up fake websites and sending confirmation messages to dupe unsuspecting celebrators.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Book directly through official websites or well-known apps.
- Verify bookings by calling the venue directly.
- Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
3. Charity and Donation Scams
The New Year spirit often inspires generosity, and scammers know it. You might receive messages or calls requesting donations. Sadly, these are often elaborate frauds designed to steal your money.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Research the organization before donating.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages.
- Donate only through verified platforms or official websites.
Staying One Step Ahead of Scammers
To make sure you don’t fall prey to these scams, here are some general tips:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Keep Your Software Updated
- Stay Informed
- Report Scams
This New Year, don’t let cybercriminals ruin your celebrations. Be cautious, share this information with your loved ones, and stay safe. Let’s ring in the New Year with joy and vigilance!
