Man loses ₹1.95 lakh after downloading fake ‘PM Kisan’ app

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A 30-year-old resident of Yousufguda was duped of ₹1.95 lakh after installing a malicious mobile application disguised as the ‘PM Kisan’ app. The incident occurred on July 28, when the victim received a WhatsApp message from an unknown number containing an APK file claiming to be linked to the government welfare scheme.

Trusting the message, the man clicked the link, which triggered the download and installation of the app. Soon after, his phone began to malfunction. According to the complainant, it overheated, drained battery abnormally, and switched off without warning. Within hours, he discovered that ₹1.95 lakh had been fraudulently withdrawn from his bank account.

In addition to the financial loss, the hacker gained access to the victim’s WhatsApp account and began sending suspicious messages to his contacts, raising alarm among his friends and family.

The victim has since lodged a formal complaint with the cybercrime wing of the Hyderabad Police. A case was booked and an investigation is underway.

Cybercrime officials have issued a public advisory warning citizens to remain vigilant against fake APK files circulated via WhatsApp. Criminals distribute malware disguised as government-related apps. Once installed, these files can compromise phones, extract sensitive information, and hijack messaging apps to carry out further fraud.

Authorities have emphasised that the official PM-KISAN scheme communicates only through government channels and never distributes apps via WhatsApp or SMS. No payments or downloads are required to access scheme benefits.

Victims of cybercrime should immediately report incidents by dialling 1930 or visiting cybercrime.gov.in. Hyderabad’s Cybercrime Police can also be reached via WhatsApp on 8712665171 or emailed at [email protected].

Published - August 07, 2025 07:08 pm IST

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