What is the new type of scam involving APK files?

Scammers trick individuals into downloading malicious APK files under the pretext of updating KYC details, which are then used to steal personal and financial information.

How do scammers initiate the APK scam?

Scammers send messages resembling official bank communications, warning that the recipient’s account will be blocked unless KYC details are updated.

An APK file is an Android Package file used to distribute and install applications on Android devices. Malicious APKs can contain malware.

What happens if I download the malicious APK file?

Once installed, the malware in the APK can give scammers control over your device, allowing them to lock it, steal information, and demand a ransom.

What are keyloggers, and how are they used in this scam?

Keyloggers are a type of malware that records all keystrokes on a device, capturing sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers.

What is the new type of scam involving APK files?

Scammers trick individuals into downloading malicious APK files under the pretext of updating KYC details, which are then used to steal personal and financial information.

How do scammers initiate the APK scam?

Scammers send messages resembling official bank communications, warning that the recipient’s account will be blocked unless KYC details are updated.

An APK file is an Android Package file used to distribute and install applications on Android devices. Malicious APKs can contain malware.

What happens if I download the malicious APK file?

Once installed, the malware in the APK can give scammers control over your device, allowing them to lock it, steal information, and demand a ransom.

What are keyloggers, and how are they used in this scam?

Keyloggers are a type of malware that records all keystrokes on a device, capturing sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers.

What's the latest WhatsApp scam?

Recent WhatsApp scams include fake job offers, APK file links, and impersonation messages asking users to install apps or share OTPs.

How to know if an APK is unsafe?

Unsafe APKs often ask for unnecessary permissions, come from unknown sources, lack reviews, or trigger security warnings after installation.

What is the 12000 crore scam in India?

The ₹12,000 crore scam refers to large-scale digital or financial fraud cases involving fake apps, shell companies, and money laundering networks.

Are APK files safe to delete?

APK files are safe to delete if they are unused installation files, as deleting them does not affect already installed apps.

What is apk file scam?

An APK file scam involves tricking users into installing malicious Android apps that steal data, access bank details, or control the device.

Can an APK have a virus?

Yes, APK files can contain viruses or malware that can spy on activities, steal data, or perform unauthorized transactions.

An app scam is when a fake or malicious application deceives users into sharing personal data, money, or installing harmful software.

How to remove APK virus?

APK viruses can be removed by uninstalling the app, running antivirus scans, clearing permissions, and resetting the device if needed.

Is it illegal to use an APK?

Using APKs is not illegal, but installing pirated, modified, or malicious APKs can violate laws and compromise device security.

How to check fake APK?

Fake APKs can be checked by verifying the developer, scanning with antivirus apps, checking permissions, and avoiding unofficial websites.

What is APK full form?

APK stands for Android Package Kit. It is the file format used to install apps on Android devices.

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New APK Scam: How To Safeguard Your Bank Account & Your Phone?

Komal Bajpai

Author

Updated: 06-01-2026 at 3:31 PM

Scams in India are at an all-time high, and fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated with each passing day. From UPI frauds to fake customer care calls, cybercriminals constantly invent new ways to deceive people. One of the fastest-growing digital frauds today is the APK scam, where victims are tricked into downloading a malicious application that looks genuine but is designed to steal data, money, or control of the device.

Many people report received APK file on WhatsApp or SMS messages claiming urgent actions such as KYC updates, RTO challan payments, or bank account verification. These scams often create panic, pushing users to act without thinking.

Let us understand how APK scams work, why they are dangerous, and how you can protect yourself and your family.

Also Read: Meta Launches Anti-Scam Awareness Drive Ahead Of Holiday Season

What Is The APK Scam?

An APK (Android Package Kit) scam is a form of cyber fraud in which scammers trick users into installing a malicious application on their Android phones. These apps often appear legitimate and may claim to be related to banks, RTO services, courier tracking, or government portals.

Once installed, the fake app can:

Access personal data.
Read OTPs and SMS messages.
Record keystrokes.
Control banking and UPI apps.
Lock the device and demand ransom.

This is why people often ask, are APK files safe for Android? The answer is: only when downloaded from trusted sources like Google Play Store. APK files shared through messages are extremely risky.

How Does The Scam Work?

APK scams usually follow a structured psychological pattern. Below is a step-by-step explanation to help you recognise the danger early.

Step 1: Creating A False Narrative

Scammers send messages that look exactly like official communication from banks, RTOs, courier services, or telecom providers. These messages often state:

“Your KYC is incomplete. Account will be blocked.”
“Pay RTO challan immediately to avoid penalty.”
“Your parcel is on hold. Download app to track.”

This tactic is commonly seen in RTO challan APK scam cases, where people panic and download the app without verification.

Banks have repeatedly warned customers about such messages. Punjab & Sind Bank, for instance, clarified that customers are being asked to download APK files loaded with malware to steal personal and financial information.

Step 2: Installing The APK File

Once the scammer gains trust or induces fear, they send a download link or APK file directly. Many users report they received APK file on WhatsApp from unknown numbers pretending to be officials.

After installation, the app asks for permissions such as:

Access to SMS
Phone control
Accessibility services
Screen recording

Granting these permissions allows scammers full access to the device.

Step 3: Scammers Take Full Control

After installation, scammers may:

Read OTPs and empty bank accounts
Lock the phone remotely
Access private photos and contacts
Demand ransom to unlock the device
Threaten to leak personal data

This stage causes severe financial and emotional distress, especially for elderly users and first-time smartphone users.

Also read: How To Stay Safe From ATM Card Tempering Scam

What About iPhone Users? Apk Scam On iPhone Explained

Many people ask whether Apple users are safe. Let’s clarify this.

APK files are designed for Android devices only. Therefore, the APK scam on iPhone works differently.

iPhones do not install APK files
However, scammers may send phishing links or fake profiles
Users may still lose money by entering credentials

So, is the APK file dangerous for an iPhone?. Technically, no, but iPhone users are still vulnerable to phishing scams that imitate APK fraud tactics.

Scammers adapt their methods across platforms.

Common Types Of APK Scams In India

Some of the most reported variants include:

In most cases, victims received an APK file on WhatsApp or SMS from unknown numbers.

How To Stay Cautious?

Let’s understand how to not fall victim to this scam. Please take into account the points mentioned below and stay safe from such fraudulent activities:

Never download files sent from unauthorised numbers.
Always cross-check from the official bank website or organisation’s pages about the shared news and links to check its authenticity.
Never click on unknown links.
Do not share personal information.
Do not send money to any unknown numbers.
Call the authorities if any suspicious activity takes place.

Also Read: Save Yourself From PAN Card Scam and Fraud Online

Where To Register A Complaint About Such Fraud Activities?

If you’ve fallen victim to any kind of cybercrime, you can register a complaint through the following portals laid down below:

Please call the cybercrime helpline at 1930.
Or you can visit the official website of the Cybercrime portal and register your complaint there directly.

Why Awareness Is The Best Defence Against APK Scams?

Cybercriminals rely on fear, urgency, and lack of awareness. Whether it is an RTO challan APK scam, a fake bank message, or a misleading APKPure link, the goal remains the same: trick users into installing malware.

Understanding are APK files safe for Android and knowing that APK scam on iPhone still exists in different forms helps users stay vigilant across platforms.

Conclusion

APK scams are rapidly evolving and pose a serious threat to digital safety in India. With increasing smartphone usage, scammers exploit trust and panic to steal money, data, and peace of mind. Whether you received APK file on WhatsApp, got a fake bank message, or faced an RTO-related alert, always pause and verify.

Being informed is your strongest defence. Share this information with family members, especially senior citizens, and help build a safer digital environment.

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