Archive · 12 Sep 2026
Telangana Cyber Bureau Warns Retro Photo Apps May Enable Fraud
Many people are using apps to make new photos look like pictures from the 1980s.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau says criminals may use this trend to trick people.
They may advertise free photo apps through messages or suspicious links.
The apps might ask for access to private information on a phone.
This could include text messages, OTPs, contacts and banking details.
Criminals could use that information to steal money or someone’s identity.
People should download apps only from official app stores and check their permissions.
They should never share PINs, OTPs or banking passwords, and should report suspicious cybercrime on 1930.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau warned that retro photo apps are being used to lure people into cyber fraud.
Fraudsters are offering free or unlimited access through suspicious advertisements, messages and links.
Malicious APK files may request access to SMS messages, OTPs, contacts, banking details and other device data.
Stolen information could enable financial fraud, unauthorized transactions and identity theft.
The bureau advised using official app stores, reviewing permissions, avoiding credential sharing and reporting cybercrime on 1930.
- Who
- The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, directed by Shikha Goel, issued the warning to citizens.
- What
- The bureau warned that fraudulent retro photo apps and APK files may steal personal and banking information.
- When
- The warning was issued as the retro-photo trend grows among younger and older users.
- Where
- The warning was issued in Telangana, with Hyderabad identified in the report.
- Why
- Fraudsters are using attractive photo-editing offers to persuade users to install malicious apps and disclose sensitive data.
- Warning agency
- Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB)
- Director quoted
- Shikha Goel
- Fraud method
- Suspicious links, advertisements, messages and unverified APK files
- Potentially exposed data
- SMS messages, OTPs, contacts, banking details and other device data
- Possible consequences
- Financial fraud, unauthorized transactions and identity theft
- Recommended download source
- Official app stores
- Complaint channels
- 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal