Pune Cyber Thieves Hack Phones with Fake E-Challan APKs, Demand Money

• Cybercriminals in Pune's Daund tehsil are using a new method: sending fake e-challan messages with APK files to hack mobile phones.
• Opening the attached APK file automatically installs three suspicious applications, giving hackers complete control of the mobile device.
• Hackers then use the victim's contact list and display picture to send urgent money requests to friends and relatives, claiming a hospital emergency.
• Inspector Narayan Deshmukh of Yavat Police Station warns citizens to use official 'Maha Traffic' app for e-challans and avoid unknown links or APK files.
• If defrauded, immediately contact cybercrime helpline 1930, register on www.cybercrime.gov.in, and secure banking/UPI PINs.

Why It Matters: Beware of fake e-challan messages with APKs; verify requests and use official sources to avoid cyber fraud.