Hyderabad: As the New Year approaches, cybercriminals are gearing up to exploit the festive spirit with a new scam targeting WhatsApp users. Authorities have issued a high alert, warning the public to be vigilant against fraudulent Happy New Year greetings that contain malicious links.
In the coming days, you might receive Happy New Year greetings on WhatsApp that include a link to a supposed greeting card in your name. The message may urge you to click on the link to send personalized New Year cards to your friends. However, clicking on this link can have severe consequences.
Cyber crooks are using these links to spread APK file type malware, designed to hack into your phone and give them unauthorized access. Once the malware is installed, your mobile data, photo gallery, contact numbers, and even bank account details can be stolen. This can lead to emotional and financial fraud, putting you and your loved ones at great risk.
To protect yourself from this threat, follow these safety tips:
- Do not click on any suspicious links: If you receive a New Year greeting with a link, avoid clicking on it.
- Verify the sender: Only trust messages and links from known and reliable sources.
- Keep your phone secure: Use updated antivirus software and regularly check for malware.
Stay safe and enjoy a fraud-free New Year by being cautious and spreading the word about this potential scam. Let’s ensure that everyone starts the year on a positive and secure note.
