The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police has issued an alert warning the public against fraudulent New Year greeting links being widely circulated on WhatsApp ahead of the celebrations, warning that clicking on such links could put personal and financial information at risk.
Police said users may receive messages claiming to offer personalized New Year’s greetings or digital gifts, often prompting recipients to click on a link to view the content. Those links, officials said, typically trigger downloads of malicious APK files that install spyware or malware on cellphones.
Once installed, the malicious software can give hackers access to bank accounts, one-time passwords, photo galleries and contact lists, leading to financial loss and misuse of personal data, police said.
Cybercrime officials advise the public not to click on unknown or suspicious links, especially those that ask users to install or update an app to view greetings. Citizens were told to limit themselves to opening plain text messages, images or videos received from trusted contacts.
Officials said increased fraud activity is common during the holidays and urged the public to remain cautious and vigilant as the New Year approaches.
Published – 27 Dec 2025 19:23 IST
