Cybercriminals Using Fake Wedding Invites to Hack Phones: Police Warn Citizens to Stay Alert

As the wedding season begins, cybercriminals have found a new way to trick people — by sending fake digital wedding invitations that secretly install malware on mobile phones. The Rajasthan Police Cyber Crime Branch has issued a warning, alerting citizens about malicious files named “Aamantran.apk” being circulated on social media, WhatsApp, and email. Once opened, this file gives hackers access to personal data, bank details, and even OTPs, leading to financial fraud.

🔹 The New Scam: “Digital Wedding Invite” Trap

During the festive season, it’s common for families to send digital invites to relatives and friends. Cyber fraudsters are exploiting this trend by sending fake e-invites or gift links that appear genuine but contain malicious software. According to reports, these files often come with names like Aamantran.apk, which tricks users into believing it’s a wedding card or event invitation.

Once the victim clicks on the file and installs it, the app requests permissions such as access to the camera, SMS, files, and contacts. After gaining these permissions, the malware can track user activity, read OTPs, and steal login credentials, giving criminals full control over the device.

🔹 What Happens After Your Phone Is Hacked

Once this malware is active, hackers can completely take over the victim’s phone. They can:

• Withdraw money from linked bank accounts.

• Access and misuse personal documents and messages.

• Read OTPs and authentication codes.

• Lock the device remotely, demanding payment to unlock it.

Several incidents have already been reported where users lost access to their phones and witnessed unauthorized money transfers from their accounts.

🔹 Police Advisory: How to Stay Safe

The Rajasthan Police Cyber Cell has urged citizens to remain alert and avoid clicking on any suspicious wedding invitation links or gift offers received through social media or messaging apps. Key safety tips include:

• Never install files or apps from unknown sources.

• Turn off “Install from Unknown Sources” in your phone’s settings.

• Delete suspicious messages or links immediately.

• Warn friends and family to stay cautious and not forward such links.

If you accidentally clicked on such a link or installed a suspicious app, uninstall it right away, run a full antivirus scan, and monitor your bank transactions closely.

🔹 How to Protect Yourself from Such Cyber Frauds

• Download apps only from trusted platforms like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your bank and email accounts.

• Install a reliable antivirus on your phone for real-time protection.

• Regularly update your phone’s operating system to patch security vulnerabilities.

• If you suspect fraudulent activity, immediately contact the Cyber Helpline at 1930 or report via cybercrime.gov.in.

🔹 Bottom Line

Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly creative, using emotional and social events like weddings to exploit trust. What seems like a harmless digital wedding card could actually be a gateway for hackers to access your phone and bank accounts.

The best protection is awareness and caution — never click on unknown links, verify the sender, and stay updated about the latest cyber scams. This wedding season, celebrate safely, not digitally deceived.