Phone compromised, Rs 7.5 lakh siphoned via malicious WhatsApp app

Cyber Crimes

Posted by AI on 2025-08-30 20:46:50 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-31 12:19:59

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Cyber criminals compromised a Hyderabad residents account after they were tricked into downloading a fake mobile application that was sent over WhatsApp, draining their bank account of Rs 7.5 lakh.

The victim discovered on August 24 that their WhatsApp account had been hacked and multiple unauthorised transactions had taken place. When reporting the incident through the 1930 cyber helpline, investigators found the malicious APK carried malware capable of accessing sensitive information and enabling transactions behind the scenes.

Cybercrime officials have warned people not to download or install APK files sent via WhatsApp, SMS, or through unknown links.

Title: Journalists arrested for extortion using media credentials

Shamirpet police have arrested three people, including two reporters, for allegedly extorting money from transporters and businessmen by misusing their media credentials. SI Dashrath identified the accused as Thirunarayanapuram Karthik and Bommerla Srikanth, both from a Telugu newspaper, and their associate Kishan.

The trio would intercept lorries, threaten drivers with false cases, and demand payments. A merchant reported that his lorry was stopped four months ago, and the suspects extorted `30,000 after threats and abuse. They made multiple subsequent demands for `4,000, `8,000, and `6,000. The complainant alleged that their actions led to the seizure of his lorry by forest officials, causing financial distress, and compelling him to attempt suicide on June 15.

Police said the accused created fear among farmers, builders, and transporters by posing as journalists and threatening police or revenue action if bribes were not paid.

Title: 7.2 kg marijuana seized from security guard's possession

The excise special task force (STF) arrested a security guard, Arjun Kumar, and seized 7.2 kg of marijuana from their possession. The accused, natives of Bihar, were selling the drug. Excise police said Pandari escaped, leaving behind 7.2 kg of marijuana with his partner. The team then seized the drug from Arjun Kumar's residence.

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