Last update:
The scammers send blurred photos in messaging applications, asking if he recognizes the person. The photo download installs an APK file, giving them access to your phone and bank accounts
Cybernetic thugs remotely access UPI data to bank applications, performing transactions using their mobile and sometimes the SMS notification is delayed, so it remains without care. (Generated by AI)
What happens if Oneone unexpectedly sends you a blurred photo and asks: “Is this your brother?” Or “Have you seen it somewhere?” As a human, you would naturally try to see the photo. However, this is where an important error occurs. Today, scammers are not sending to the left, but using photos like bait. The moment you download that photo, the control of your phone is in your hands!
Your bank account, UPI, passwords, OTP: the separation is accessible to them without you noticing. This new scam is called the ‘photo claim scam’. It may seem innocent but it is extremely dangerous!
Photo claim scam: how it works
Recently, a new type of fraud on social networks has emerged, called “photo claim scam”. In this scam, the scammers send a message to WhatsApp or in any other messaging application with a blurred photo. Driven by humanity and curiosity, people often make the mistake of downloading the photo, and this is where the scam begins.
The messages could say: “Is this your relative?” Or “This person has bone in your neighborhood, can you identify them?” Or “someone is missing, have you seen them?”
Loss of phone control
When you download the photo, an APK file is downloaded, an essential application of third parties. Once this file is installed on your phone, it grants numerous permits (such as SMS, bank applications, UPI, contacts) to cybercriminals. Consistently, OTP and bank SMS of their accounts are also transferred to the scam devices. By the time you realize, your account is empty!
Cybernetic thugs remotely access UPI data to bank applications, performing transactions using their mobile and sometimes the SMS notification is delayed, so it remains without care. Money can be removed from ATMs in minutes, and purchases of electronic commerce sites exhaust their account before noticing it.
Precautions and security measures
A similar scam was observed last year, where motor files were sent under the appearance of wedding invitations. Now, the same method is being used with photos recognition.
Ankush Mishra, Cober Ciber Celil, mentioned that although this fraud has not yet appeared locally, people should remain attentive. A click can delete your money earned with effort.
Here we show you how to protect yourself:
- Just download play store applications
- Avoid clicking suspicious photos or left
- Always check the permissions granted on your phone
- Be to vary from unknown calls or messages
- Use face or digital footprint locks in bank applications
Remember, a click can lead to significant financial loss. Keep alert, keep in mind and report others so that no one else is a victim of these cybercriminals.
