A retired Punjab National Bank employee lost nearly ₹13 lakh after falling victim to a fake life certificate scam involving a fraudulent APK file and WhatsApp impersonation. The scam underscores growing cybercrime risks targeting pensioners.
How Did a Retired PNB Employee Lose ₹13 Lakh in a Fake Life Certificate Scam?
About the Scam and How It Unfolded
A retired bank employee from Barkatpura, Hyderabad, lost ₹12.99 lakh after being tricked into downloading a malicious APK file. The fraud began when the victim clicked on a fake Facebook link that appeared to be from Punjab National Bank (PNB), offering to facilitate the online submission of a pensioner’s life certificate.
After entering his personal and banking details on the fraudulent website, the pensioner received a WhatsApp call from someone posing as a PNB representative. The fraudster’s WhatsApp profile even displayed the official bank logo, adding an air of credibility. The caller then instructed the retired employee to install an APK file to complete the “life certificate process.”
Believing the instructions to be genuine, the victim complied. However, within hours, several unauthorized debit alerts appeared on his phone. It was only then that he realized ₹12,99,300 had been siphoned off from his three savings accounts. This sophisticated scam exploited both social engineering and mobile malware tactics to drain the victim’s funds.
Cyber experts warn that pensioners and senior citizens are increasingly being targeted through social media links and fake app downloads. Such scams often use the guise of life certificate verification — a mandatory annual process for pensioners — to gain access to sensitive financial data.
Amid the growing instances of digital fraud, investors and pensioners must stay cautious. Regular awareness about such traps can prevent severe losses, especially when banking operations are increasingly shifting to digital platforms.
For investors keeping an eye on markets and safety protocols, similar caution is essential when trading. Follow verified strategies through trusted market resources like our Nifty Option Tip and BankNifty Option Tip for disciplined execution in volatile markets.
Why Pensioners Must Exercise Digital Vigilance
Authorities highlight that fraudsters are increasingly leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to target vulnerable users. They use official-looking profiles, logos, and convincing communication to build trust. In this particular case, the retired employee was deceived by a profile using PNB’s emblem and a convincing narrative around pension verification.
Officials urge all pensioners to only access official bank websites or government-authorized portals like Jeevan Pramaan for life certificate submissions. Banks never request customers to install APK files or provide account details via social media links. Cyber police have also appealed to citizens to immediately report such fraudulent activities to prevent further financial damage.
Meanwhile, awareness among the investor community is equally vital. Digital trust can be exploited in various ways — from phishing in banking to misleading market messages. Staying updated with credible advisories and analytical coverage on F&O SEBI Regd Tip sections helps traders navigate such uncertain terrains more confidently.
Investor Takeaway
Indian-Share-Tips.com Main Technical Analyst Gulshan Khera, CFP®, who is also a SEBI Regd Investment Adviser, observes that cyber hygiene is as critical as financial discipline. Just as investors rely on verified Nifty and Bank Nifty analyses before trades, pensioners must depend only on verified digital channels for any banking compliance.
Related Queries
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Why Are APK File Scams Becoming More Common in India?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.
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