Fake apps, malware and device risks
16 guides. Each explains one scam: how it works, an example, the red flags and the steps to take.
Wedding Invitation APK Shared on WhatsAppA WhatsApp message with a file named like a wedding card ends in .apk. Installing it can give a…Fake RTO Challan or Vehicle App Sent as an APKA message says you have a pending traffic challan and asks you to install an app file to see it.…Instant Loan App That Steals Contacts and Threatens YouA quick-loan app asks for contacts and gallery access, then threatens to message your family when…Stalkerware Spy App Hidden on a PhoneA hidden spy app can show messages, location and calls to someone who installed it. Learn the…Malicious QR Codes Stuck in Public PlacesA QR sticker on a parking meter, restaurant table or poster leads to a fake payment page or an app…Shop Counter QR Sticker Swap Targeting Small MerchantsScammers paste their own payment QR over a shop's real code so customers pay the wrong account.…Juice Jacking: Public Charging Ports and Rigged CablesCan a public USB port or a gifted cable steal data from your phone? See what is real, what is rare…Fake Free Wi-Fi Hotspot That Steals LoginsA free Wi-Fi network with a familiar name asks you to log in with your phone number or social…Rooting or Modding Your Phone for 'Free Premium' OffersVideos and chats promise free premium apps or faster phones if you root or modify your device. It…Browser Notification Spam: The 'Click Allow to Continue' TrapA website says 'tap Allow to prove you are not a robot' and then floods your phone with scam…Fake Android System Update or Security Patch Pop-upA pop-up or message says your phone needs an urgent system update and offers a download. The file…SIM Swap Fraud and Duplicate SIM TakeoverYour phone loses network for no reason and OTPs go to a criminal's SIM. Learn the signs of SIM…Fake Phone Cleaner, Booster and Antivirus AppsCleaner, booster and 'virus removal' apps promise speed but fill your phone with ads or ask for…Modded WhatsApp (GB WhatsApp and Similar) DownloadsModified WhatsApp apps promise extra features but come from unknown sources, can leak chats and…'We Found Your Phone' Message with a Tracking LinkAfter you lose a phone, a message says it was found and asks you to click a link or pay a fee. The…Public Computer and Cyber Cafe Login TheftLogging in to bank, email or government portals on a cafe or kiosk computer can expose passwords…
Five habits that help with any of these
- Never share an OTP, UPI PIN, card PIN or CVV with anyone, including someone who says they are from the bank.
- Do not tap links in unexpected messages; open the official app or type the website yourself.
- Call back on the number printed on your card, bill or official app, not the one that contacted you.
- Be careful when someone creates a deadline or asks you to keep the matter secret.
- If money has moved, call 1930 at once and report at cybercrime.gov.in; the first hours matter most.
Check it before you tap or pay
Safeavio Sentinel is a made-in-India Android app: paste a message or link, or scan a QR code, and get a plain verdict with the reasons. It helps you spot a scam; it does not promise to stop every one.
Download for AndroidWhat the app does
Google Play listing: coming soon. Today the signed APK is on safeavio.com/download. Android 7.0 or later.