With the rise of online scams in India, fraudsters are using more advanced techniques to deceive unaware victims. These scams range from phishing messages to malicious files sent over messaging apps. In one such incident, a government employee in Maharashtra's Hingoli district became a victim after clicking on what seemed to be a simple wedding invitation sent via WhatsApp.
WhatsApp Invite Leads to Cyber Loss
According to NDTV, an unknown WhatsApp contact sent the victim an invitation to a wedding scheduled for August 30. The message read: "Welcome. Shadi mein zarur aye. 30/08/2025. Love is the master key that opens the gate of happiness." Along with the text, the sender shared what appeared to be a PDF wedding card.
The file wasn't an actual PDF but an APK (Android Application Package) that deployed malware onto the user's device. After the victim opened the file, cybercriminals were able to access the device and steal money from the bank account.
A case has been filed at Hingoli police station and the cyber cell and an investigation underway to trace the culprits.
Stay Cautious Against Unknown Files
Cybersecurity alerts were issued by Himachal Pradesh authorities in 2024 after scammers began circulating fake wedding invitations on WhatsApp, warning users about dangerous APK files disguised as harmless invites. These files can infect devices and provide hackers with access to private financial information.
This instance shows that a seemingly harmless communication can result in monetary loss. Users should be cautious when they receive communications and attachments from unknown numbers. Before opening any files or invitations always recheck with the sender. Update the software on your phone and apply security fixes on a regularly. Enable security features such as app locks or two-factor authentication thay can reduce the possibility of unauthorized access to financial applications.
