Hyderabad police cyber fraud advisory warns against OTP scams and digital arrest
Hyderabad: The Cyber Crime Police issued a cyber fraud advisory warning citizens about a surge in scams involving OTP sharing, malicious APK files and so-called digital arrest frauds across the country.
Officials said fraudsters were exploiting stolen personal data to carry out organised cyber crimes. According to police, the scams begin with impersonation calls where offenders pose as bank, telecom or government officials to extract One-Time Passwords and gain unauthorised access to bank accounts and digital services.
They further warned that victims were being tricked into installing malicious APK files sent through links on SMS, messaging apps or email. Once installed, these applications allow fraudsters to access SMS messages, capture passwords and banking credentials, and remotely monitor device activity. In addition, criminals collect identity proofs, contacts and personal data to build detailed victim profiles.
Cyber fraud advisory flags digital arrest scam tactics
Police said the cyber fraud advisory also highlighted the rising use of “digital arrest” scams. In these cases, fraudsters impersonate police or central agencies and accuse victims of serious offences such as money laundering. They often use video calls to simulate official proceedings and create panic.
Using personal data to appear credible, the accused threaten immediate arrest and isolate victims from contacting others. As a result, victims are coerced into transferring money under the pretext of verification or case settlement. In some cases, fraudsters directly siphon funds using previously accessed banking details.
The advisory, issued by V Aravind Babu, Deputy Commissioner of Police, urged citizens to remain vigilant. Police clearly stated that no law enforcement agency conducts arrests through video calls or demands money for legal clearance.
Authorities advised the public not to share OTPs, passwords or banking details with anyone. They also urged people to avoid downloading applications from unverified sources and to rely only on official app stores.
Citizens were asked to immediately report cyber fraud incidents by calling 1930 or through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐲:
Subject: Advisory on Cyber Frauds Involving OTP Sharing, Malicious APK Files, and “Digital Arrest” Scams
In view of the rising incidents of cyber fraud across the country, the public is hereby alerted about a dangerous pattern of crimes where… pic.twitter.com/86j08GoIB5
— Hyderabad City Police (@hydcitypolice) March 27, 2026
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