New Year Cyber Alert: Don’t Click Fake Greeting Links or Risk Losing Your Money
As the New Year approaches, cybercriminals are gearing up to exploit the festive cheer. Messages with “Happy New Year” wishes, appearing on WhatsApp, SMS, email, and social media platforms, may seem innocent but could hide dangerous links designed to steal your money and personal data.
Cybersecurity agencies have issued warnings across India, urging users to stay vigilant, as New Year’s Eve is a prime opportunity for online fraudsters.
How Cybercriminals Target Users
Fraudsters are sending fake links and files disguised as New Year greetings. Often, these messages appear to come from a trusted contact, making them even more convincing. The messages may include:
-
“Click this blue link to see your gift.”
-
“Download this greeting card now.”
These links and files can install unknown applications on your phone without your knowledge, giving hackers full control over your device.
What Happens If You Click the Link
Once the malicious app is installed, hackers can access:
-
Your SMS and chat messages
-
One-Time Passwords (OTPs)
-
Contacts and photos
-
Banking and UPI apps
This could lead to unauthorized transactions and financial loss, making the threat extremely serious.
Tips to Stay Safe
To protect yourself from New Year cyber scams, follow these precautions:
-
Ignore suspicious links or files sent via messages.
-
Never click on unknown blue links or download files without verification.
-
Verify with the sender if a link or file is genuine.
-
Disable app installations from unknown sources in your phone settings.
-
Download apps only from official stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
-
Enable extra security on banking and UPI apps, such as PINs, passwords, and biometric locks.
-
Never share OTPs, passwords, or PINs with anyone.
-
Act fast if you mistakenly click a link: disconnect from the internet immediately and inform your bank.
Final Reminder
The festive mood should not compromise your digital security. Even a single click on a fake link can give hackers access to sensitive financial and personal information. Awareness and caution are your best defenses against cybercrime this New Year.
