Beware of Cyber Fraud: Opening Unknown PDF Files Could Empty Your Bank Account

The Rapid Development of Technology and the Internet: A Double-Edged Sword

While the widespread availability of the internet and rapid technological advancements have greatly benefited people, there is also a darker side. These advancements have made people vulnerable to fraud. Cybercriminals are constantly devising new ways to deceive individuals. They now employ methods so dangerous that by the time people realize what’s happening, it’s often too late. Let’s explore the latest method of cybercrime and how to protect yourself from it.

The New Method of Cybercrime

Cybercriminals are now using popular social media platforms like WhatsApp to trick people. They send a PDF file via WhatsApp, and as soon as the recipient clicks on it to open, their mobile device or computer is hacked. Following the hack, the criminals quickly drain all the money from the victim’s bank account. Most people are not aware of this type of crime, making it easy for cybercriminals to ensnare them.

A Single PDF Could Leave You Broke

In these scams, cybercriminals send a PDF file from an unknown mobile number to the victim’s WhatsApp. They then entice the victim through a call or message to open the PDF. The moment the victim clicks on the PDF, their phone or device is hacked.

Cybercriminals embed a specific type of malware in the PDF, which they send via WhatsApp. Often, the PDF contains a phishing link, and once opened, it redirects the victim to another page or website. In such cases, all the data on the victim’s phone is transmitted to the scammer. The cybercriminals then easily empty the victim’s bank account.

What is a Phishing Attack?

A phishing attack is a technique where cybercriminals create fraudulent websites that closely resemble legitimate ones to steal data. These fake sites are designed to look identical to the original, tricking people into thinking they are on the official website. In a phishing attack, the cybercriminals alter the original website’s URL, register a new domain, or use a subdomain to spread the link. These criminals often host the fraudulent data on servers based in China rather than on well-known hosting sites. The fake website is then disseminated through social media using database links.

Don’t Click on Any Link Without Verification

Cyber expert Mayur Bhusavalkar explained that many current scams involve phishing attacks under the guise of offering free products from private companies. If you receive any suspicious link, you should not click on it without verifying its authenticity. Clicking on such a link can lead to data theft from your mobile device, which may require a factory reset to resolve. Currently, phishing, spyware, and malware attacks are being carried out under the names of private companies. If you receive such a link, do not share it with others without verifying it.

How to Keep Your Device Secure

To protect yourself from such cybercrimes, follow these steps:

• Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links: Do not click on any links, messages, or PDFs received from unknown numbers on WhatsApp.
• Be Cautious of Offers and Prizes: If someone sends you a link, message, or PDF from an unknown number on WhatsApp, and tries to entice you with an offer or prize, be cautious. It could be a scam.
• Block Suspicious Numbers: If you receive any suspicious messages, links, or PDFs on WhatsApp, block the number immediately and report it. This will help WhatsApp to permanently ban that number.
• Don’t Share Sensitive Information: Never share important information like banking details, OTPs, PINs, passwords, etc., with unknown individuals on WhatsApp.
• Report Cybercrimes Immediately: If you ever fall victim to any type of cybercrime, report it immediately by calling the helpline number 1930 and provide a detailed description of the incident.