What is WhatsApp Wedding Invitation Scam That You Should Be Aware Of?

Cybercriminals frequently utilize WhatsApp as a springboard for new scams. This time, a new cyber fraud has been reported whereby the criminals are using WhatsApp to send digital wedding invitations. 

In this scam, malicious APK files are sent as wedding invitations. When the user downloads the attachment, malware discreetly installs on their phones. This enables cybercriminals to track actions, access private information, and even use financial data.

The victims are tricked when they get a WhatsApp message with an attachment that looks like a wedding invitation. These attachments contain malicious APK files. The malware discreetly infiltrates the device after it has been downloaded. 

The compromised phone can then be completely taken over by hackers, who can use it to transmit messages, steal information, or even extort money from the user without their knowledge.

Law enforcement has issued new warnings about the scam, with the Himachal Pradesh Cyber Police spearheading the effort following an increase in instances in the state. DIG Mohit Chawla, from Himachal Pradesh’s CID and Cyber Crime Department has warned people not to click on an unsolicited wedding invitation or any file from an unknown number. Chawla has further warned people to verify the sender and the file before downloading anything onto the phone. 

In a state-wide alert, the Himachal Pradesh Cyber Police has advised citizens to exercise caution when they receive files from unknown numbers, particularly APK downloads.

Downloading APK files from unreliable sources should be avoided as they are frequently used maliciously. Watch out for unsolicited messages and ensure that any strange attachments are legitimate before opening them. To stop installations from unidentified sources, install trustworthy antivirus software and turn on security settings. If you fall victim to cyber fraud, you can report it by calling the national cybercrime helpline at 1930.