Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Gangtok: Gangtok police issued an urgent alert on July 16 regarding a wave of fraudulent WhatsApp messages. Scammers are sending fake traffic violation notices to local citizens. These messages claim the recipient ran a red light and provide an attached APK file for the victim to download.
Additional Superintendent of Police for Traffic, Karma Chedup Bhutia, addressed the media alongside the Deputy Superintendent of Police to clarify the department's operations. Bhutia stated, "Recently, many people have been receiving WhatsApp messages claiming to be traffic violation notices. These messages usually state that the recipient has jumped a red light and include an attachment in the form of an APK file."
The department does not use WhatsApp to issue traffic tickets. They also never request that citizens download files. Experts warn that these specific APK files contain malicious software. This code can easily swipe private data and financial details directly from your phone. Do not open these files. Delete the messages immediately to keep your device secure.
If you get a suspicious message, do not forward it. Call the Traffic Police directly using official contact numbers to verify the facts. Officials insist that public vigilance is the only way to stop these hackers from gaining access to sensitive personal accounts.
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