Srinagar, Feb 16: Jammu and Kashmir Police has issued a warning to government employees about a malicious APK file circulating on WhatsApp in the name of the proposed 8th Pay Commission, amid a rise in cyber fraud attempts targeting public servants.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the police advised employees not to download or install any application claiming to calculate revised salaries under the 8th Pay Commission. The advisory followed multiple reports of government staff receiving WhatsApp messages urging them to download an APK file to “check how much salary you will get after the 8th Pay Commission is implemented.”
Officials confirmed that the shared link is not connected to any government portal or authorised platform. Instead, it is a fraudulent Android application package (APK) designed to compromise devices. Cyber experts explained that once installed, the APK can gain extensive permissions, allowing fraudsters to access contacts, SMS messages, banking details, stored documents, and even one-time passwords (OTPs). Similar malicious apps across the country have been used to siphon money from bank accounts, impersonate victims, or access official communication.
The police stressed that no official salary revision tool has been released and advised employees to rely only on notifications issued through government websites or recognised communication channels.
Officials warned that cybercriminals often exploit public interest around major policy announcements — such as pay commission revisions — to lure victims into downloading malicious software. They urged citizens not to click on unknown links, download APK files from unverified sources, or share personal or financial information through messaging platforms. Suspicious messages should be reported to the nearest cyber police station or via official cybercrime reporting portals.
With digital frauds on the rise, malicious apps have become a preferred tool for scammers as they can bypass conventional phishing filters. Police reiterated that installing applications from outside official app stores significantly increases the risk of device compromise. “Be alert. Do not download any unauthorised APK claiming to calculate 8th Pay Commission salaries. Verify before you trust,” the advisory said, urging government employees to spread awareness among colleagues and family members.
Authorities assured that efforts are underway to trace the origin of the fraudulent links and identify those behind the scam. (Agencies)
