Police have appealed to the public not to download or click on APK files, commonly used in mobile-based frauds, and to avoid responding to cyber criminals.

With fraudsters increasingly trapping people through fake apps, phone calls and other digital offences, the police have advised the public to stay alert and refrain from opening suspicious applications. In an advisory issued by the A.P. Police Headquarters on Sunday, officials warned that APK-based frauds are spreading rapidly and urged people not to fall prey.

Cyber criminals typically send a file, often disguised as a PDF, through SMS, WhatsApp or Telegram, asking users to install it on their phones. Once installed, the malicious app can gain access to the device, including bank details and OTPs, investigation officers said.

Common bait messages include fake traffic challans, KYC update requests, electricity bill warnings, government loan approvals, wedding invitations and fraudulent customer care calls. Victims are often threatened with disconnection of electricity, suspension of bank services or cancellation of driving licence if payment is not made immediately. They are then prompted to click a link or install the file.

The police have cautioned the public against installing applications received through WhatsApp, Instagram or SMS, and strictly advised not to share UPI PIN, ATM PIN, CVV or OTP with anyone, even if the caller claims to be a bank official.

In case a suspicious app is installed, users should immediately switch off mobile data and WiFi, inform their bank to block transactions, and change net banking passwords and UPI PIN. Complaints can be lodged at cybercrime.gov.in or by dialling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.