As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, the Hyderabad City Police has issued a high-level cybersecurity advisory, warning citizens about a spike in cyber-attacks orchestrated by state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). These groups, often backed by hostile nation-states, are known to target government agencies, military personnel, and critical infrastructure in India.
What the Police Say
According to DCP (Cyber Crimes) D. Kavitha, cyber threat actors are exploiting public anxiety and curiosity surrounding the conflict.
“They are using phishing emails, fake login pages, malware-laced images, and executable files to infiltrate devices and steal data,” she said.
Authorities have observed a surge in malicious content across platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, email, and social media, designed to deceive users into clicking fake conflict-related updates or downloading dangerous files.
How the Cyber Attacks Work
Common Attack Vectors:
- Fake .exe/.apk/video files labeled as:
- Dance of the Hillary
- Army_Job_Application_Form.pdf
- tasksche.exe
- Phishing links masked as news updates from government or trusted agencies.
- Malicious Android APKs disguised as “live war updates” apps.
What Happens When You Interact With Them:
- Malware is silently installed.
- Personal information, banking credentials, and social media access may be compromised.
- Devices may be locked with ransomware, demanding payment.
Official Advisory: What You Should NOT Do
- Do not open suspicious videos, images, or files—even if forwarded by a trusted contact.
- Do not forward any such files to others or groups.
- Avoid installing APK files shared via messaging apps. Stick to official app stores.
- Do not click on forwarded links claiming to show “exclusive conflict updates” or “leaked footage.”
- Exit, report, and delete any WhatsApp groups circulating inflammatory or unverified information.
What You SHOULD Do
- Verify news via official government or reputed media channels.
- Enable antivirus and firewall protections on your devices.
- Report suspicious content to cybercrime authorities via www.cybercrime.gov.in.
- Educate your family and colleagues, especially senior citizens, about such risks.
