Exclusive| WhatsApp Scam Alert: Victims Lose Up To ₹1.7 Lakh — Kerala Police Warn Public About Fake Mparivahan APK File

A new cyber scam is sweeping across Kerala, especially targeting users of vehicle-related services via Mparivahan. In a shocking incident reported from the Thiruvananthapuram rural area, a customer attempting to check petty case details linked to a vehicle number ended up losing ₹26,000 from his bank account, all because he clicked and installed a malicious APK file sent via WhatsApp.

According to the victim, he had clicked a link that appeared legitimate and assumed it was related to Mparivahan e-challan or summons details. Upon installing the APK file, an error message appeared, and he exited the process. Moments later, he discovered that a large sum had been withdrawn from his bank account.

When he approached the police, officers at the Thiruvananthapuram Rural Cyber Crime Police Station confirmed that this was the sixth such case reported just today.

In a voice note currently circulating online, Sub Inspector Santhosh of the cybercrime division warns citizens not to fall for such scams. He clearly states that any official message from Mparivahan will only come via SMS, not through WhatsApp or any third-party messaging app. The audio message is now being shared widely as an awareness initiative.

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Police officer Santhosh also stated that victims have lost amounts ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹1,70,000 — hard-earned money that many had set aside for paying bank loans, EMIs, and essential expenses.

Senior Civil Police Officer Rishad S confirmed to Timeline that the audio is authentic and urged citizens to take it seriously. “More cases are being reported. The public must be extremely cautious. Do not click or install APK files sent via WhatsApp claiming to be from Mparivahan or any other government service,” he said.

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The scam appears to be a new variation of phishing attacks where the malicious APK file can compromise bank accounts, UPI apps, and payment credentials, leading to direct financial loss.

How to Stay Safe:

• Never click on APK files sent through WhatsApp or social media.

• Government agencies like Mparivahan only communicate via official SMS or their verified websites/apps.

• Report suspicious links or losses immediately to the nearest cyber police station or use the National Cyber Crime Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).