The Salem City Police said scammers have taken loans virtually using bank accounts of those who downloaded APK files shared on WhatsApp.
An application named ‘RTO Challan.apk’ was shared to the WhatsApp number of a person in Hasthampatti recently. Believing that it came from a government organisation, he downloaded the application on his mobile phone. Following this, the bank account information on his mobile phone was illegally taken and an online loan of ₹7.5 lakh was obtained in his name.
Later, the loan amount was transferred to the bank accounts of the fraudsters through online transactions without the knowledge of the victim. Salem City Cyber Crime Police registered a case, and with the help of bank officials, ₹1.10 lakh was frozen. The police said that an investigation is being carried out to identify and arrest the culprits.
In a press release, the Salem City police said the public should not download ‘apk files’ or suspicious apps coming through social media, including SMS messages from WhatsApp and Telegram accounts. No government agency, including banks and RTOs, will send an APK file regarding fines or services.
Avoid installing any app other than from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Do not share OTP, UPI, or ATM pin, CVV, or net banking password with anyone.
If an unknown app is suddenly installed on your mobile phone and bank transactions are made without permission, immediately disconnect the internet connection, contact the customer service of the relevant bank, and take steps to freeze the bank account.
Victims shall contact the National Cyber Helpline at 1930 without delay or register a complaint immediately on the National Cyber Crime Complaint Portal, www.cybercrime.gov.in. Filing a complaint immediately will increase the chances of freezing and recovering the fraudulently transferred funds, the police added.
Published – July 11, 2026 12:02 am IST
