Hyderabad: The Cyber Crime Unit of Hyderabad City Police has urged citizens to stay alert during this festive season, as cybercriminals continue to target shoppers with fake e-commerce links, malicious mobile apps, and phishing pages. Police said fraudsters are taking advantage of the festive excitement to steal personal and banking information, which often leads to major financial losses.
Cybercriminals use fake sites and apps to lure victims
Officials explained that cyber fraudsters are creating fake mobile apps and websites that look exactly like genuine shopping portals. They usually send these links through WhatsApp, SMS, and social media platforms. Moreover, they promise huge discounts on gadgets and festive hampers to trick users. Once victims download these APK files, malware secretly enters their phones and steals their personal and banking data.
Additionally, police said that criminals share phishing links posing as festive offers or payment gateways. When victims enter card details or OTPs on these fake pages, the fraudsters immediately transfer money from their accounts.
Fake gift offers and social media scams are on the rise
Scammers also send messages claiming that users have “won a festive gift” or “special reward.” They then ask for a small processing fee or banking details, which results in financial loss. Furthermore, fake social media pages and advertisements promote heavy discounts on branded products. After payment, the products are never delivered, and the pages vanish without a trace.
For instance, a 29-year-old woman from Secunderabad lost ₹1,40,000 after fraudsters pretending to be Fashor executives convinced her to make payments for a fake Diwali gift offer. Similarly, a 69-year-old man from Azampura lost ₹1,02,194 after installing a fake Blinkit app sent by scammers claiming to be customer care staff. Consequently, they gained access to his family’s phones and withdrew money.
Hyderabad Police issues an advisory for public safety
Therefore, police urged citizens not to click on unknown links or install apps from unverified sources. They advised shoppers to use only trusted websites, avoid sharing bank or card details on unfamiliar portals, and ignore calls or messages offering gifts. In addition, they recommended enabling two-factor authentication for all banking and shopping accounts.
If anyone faces cyber fraud, they should report the incident immediately by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in
. Quick reporting, according to police, can help freeze the transaction and prevent further losses.
Finally, Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar, IPS, appealed to citizens to stay cautious online and not let festive enthusiasm lead to cyber traps.