New Year 2026 Scam Alert: Cyber Experts Warn of WhatsApp-Linked Malware Attack

• Cyber experts warn of a New Year 2026 greetings scam spreading via WhatsApp and Telegram, exploiting festive cheer.
• Malicious messages, often from unknown contacts, contain APK files or suspicious links/GIFs designed to install malware.
• Clicking these messages can lead to malware bypassing device security, tracking activities, decoding passwords, and hijacking phones.
• Hijacked devices can be used to spread the scam further to contacts, creating a massive chain reaction and potentially draining bank accounts.
• Authorities like Hyderabad police and TGCSB advise caution, avoiding unknown links, and enabling two-factor authentication to prevent attacks.

Why It Matters: Beware of New Year 2026 greeting scams on WhatsApp/Telegram; avoid suspicious links and enable 2FA.