Fake movie app drains ₹1.75 lakh from Cyberabad user’s bank accounts
HYDERABAD: A Cyberabad resident lost ₹1,75,000 after downloading a fake movie-streaming application through a social media advertisement, police said.
According to a press release, the victim clicked on a Facebook advertisement promising free access to latest movies and was redirected to a website resembling a legitimate platform. He downloaded an application from the link and watched a film without suspecting any risk.
Malware gains access through fake software update prompt
After some time, the phone displayed what appeared to be a routine software update. Soon after, the device began malfunctioning, with Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services failing and apps not opening.
On checking his bank account, the victim found ₹80,000 had been debited. A second account, belonging to his mother and operated on the same device, showed a debit of ₹95,000. In total, ₹1,75,000 was withdrawn.
Fraudsters exploit SMS and OTP access to breach accounts
Police said the downloaded app was not the original streaming service but a malware designed to mimic it. The malicious application accessed SMS messages and one-time passwords (OTPs), enabling unauthorised transactions through banking apps.
T Sai Manohar, deputy commissioner of police, Cybercrimes, Cyberabad, said users should avoid clicking on “free movie” links and refrain from downloading APK files or apps from unknown sources.
He advised users not to grant unnecessary permissions to suspicious applications and to install software updates only through official device settings.
Advisory: Immediate steps in case of cyber fraud
Police urged victims to disconnect internet access immediately, remove suspicious apps, and change banking passwords and UPI PINs. They should also contact their bank to secure accounts and report incidents by calling 1930 or filing a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
