1 hr ago
Cybercriminals Target East Burdwan With Fake RTO Challan APK
Cybercriminals are sending people a fake traffic-fine file on WhatsApp.
The file is called “RTO CHALAN.apk.”
It may look like a normal notice, but installing it can let criminals control an Android phone.
They may access banking apps, photos, documents and WhatsApp.
The infected phone can also send the same harmful file to other people automatically.
This makes the scam spread quickly through trusted contacts.
Some political figures in Guskara were reportedly affected.
Police say people should not install suspicious APK files, even when they come from someone they know.
Police in East Burdwan warned about a malicious file named “RTO CHALAN.apk” circulated through WhatsApp.
The file appears to be a traffic fine notice but can give cybercriminals complete control of an Android phone after installation.
Investigators said the malware can clone WhatsApp, banking apps, photos and personal documents.
After installation, the malware uses the victim’s WhatsApp account to forward the APK automatically to contacts and groups.
Police said established political figures were targeted, while officials advised people not to install suspicious APK files or links from any number.
- Who
- Cybercriminals, East Burdwan police, and people including political figures in Guskara.
- What
- A malicious APK disguised as an RTO traffic-fine notice is being circulated through WhatsApp and can take control of Android phones.
- Where
- Across East Burdwan in West Bengal, including Guskara.
- When
- Police said political figures had been affected in recent times.
- Why
- The attackers reportedly target trusted political and other known contacts because recipients are less likely to question messages from familiar numbers.
Key facts
- Malicious file
- “RTO CHALAN.apk”
- Distribution method
- WhatsApp messages, groups and contacts
- Target devices
- Android phones
- Reported access
- WhatsApp, banking apps, photos and personal documents
- Spread mechanism
- The malware automatically forwards the APK from the victim’s WhatsApp account
- Reported victims
- Several political personalities in Guskara
- Police advice
- Do not click or install suspicious APK files or links, even if sent from a known number
Quotes
East Burdwan police
Police investigating the WhatsApp-distributed malware in East Burdwan
“The malware, after auto installation using the victim’s own WhatsApp account to automatically forward the same APK file to groups and contacts, causing a chain reaction to trap multiple people successively.”
thestatesman.com
“We have advised people not to click or install any APK files or links received from unknown or even known numbers if they seem suspicious.”
thestatesman.com
Sources
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