Navi Mumbai: Cyber Fraudsters Deploy New APK File Scam Targeting MGL Consumers
Residents of Navi Mumbai, particularly consumers of Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL), are facing a sophisticated new cyber fraud scheme. Criminals are sending threatening messages warning that gas connections will be disconnected due to alleged non-payment of bills. This alarming tactic preys on the fears of unsuspecting consumers, creating a sense of urgency that often leads to hasty decisions.
How the APK File Scam Operates
The fraudsters employ a clever modus operandi by including a link to an APK (Android Package Kit) file in their messages. They instruct consumers to open this link to check their outstanding bills. However, this APK file is malicious software designed to hack the victim's mobile device. Once installed, it grants the criminals remote access to the phone, enabling them to steal sensitive banking information and credentials.
This unauthorized access allows fraudsters to remotely manipulate bank accounts, leading to fraudulent money transfers without the victim's knowledge or consent. The entire process happens swiftly, often before the consumer realizes they have been compromised.
Recent Victim: Retired Government Employee Loses Rs 10 Lakh
A recent case highlights the severity of this scam. A 67-year-old retired government employee from Panvel fell victim to this new modus operandi. The fraudster, posing as MGL agency staff, contacted him claiming his gas bill remained unpaid. Believing the threat, the senior citizen followed instructions and clicked on the APK file link sent via WhatsApp.
The sender's display profile cunningly displayed the name and logo of Mahanagar Gas, adding a layer of authenticity to the scam. Shortly after downloading the file, he received a bank alert showing Rs 2 lakh debited from his account. Days later, upon updating his passbook, he discovered multiple unauthorized transactions totaling Rs 10 lakh from his two bank accounts.
Distraught by the financial loss, he filed a formal complaint at the Panvel City Police Station. Police Sub-Inspector Abhay Kadam confirmed that an FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property. Additional charges under the Information Technology Act include identity theft and cheating by impersonation using computer resources.
Similar Incident from Last Year
This is not an isolated case. In September last year, a 71-year-old man from Koparkhairane lost Rs 12 lakh in a similar Mahanagar Gas bill payment fraud. He received a message from an unidentified fraudster warning that his PNG pipeline would be disconnected due to non-update of the last payment. The scammer sent a WhatsApp link, made him click on an update option, hacked his mobile, and executed multiple transactions, siphoning Rs 12 lakh from his savings account.
These incidents underscore a troubling pattern of cyber criminals specifically targeting older, potentially less tech-savvy individuals. The emotional and financial toll on victims is substantial, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and public awareness.
Protective Measures and Police Advice
Authorities urge consumers to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited messages regarding bill payments or disconnection threats. Key precautions include:
- Never download APK files from unknown or unverified sources
- Verify any payment-related communication directly with the official company through trusted channels
- Avoid clicking on links in messages from unfamiliar senders
- Regularly monitor bank accounts for any suspicious activity
- Report any fraudulent attempts immediately to local police and cyber crime cells
The Navi Mumbai police are actively investigating these cases and working to curb such cyber fraud activities. Public cooperation and awareness remain crucial in combating these evolving digital threats.
