Lucknow: The Lucknow Police Crime Branch has intensified its public awareness drive under Operation Digital Kavach after receiving more than 50 complaints of cyber fraud linked to fake messages circulated in the name of Green Gas. Police warned consumers against downloading or installing suspicious APK files sent through WhatsApp , SMS or phone calls, saying such files are commonly used to compromise phones and steal personal or banking information.
Cyber criminals are misusing the Green Gas name to alarm consumers by claiming their pipeline gas connection will be disconnected due to an unpaid or “not updated” bill, according to the Crime Branch. Victims are then pressured to immediately “update” their bill, meter, KYC or connection details, a tactic police say is designed to force quick compliance. DCP, Crime Branch, Anil Kumar Yadav said people who have only downloaded an APK should not open or install it and should delete the file immediately. If the APK has already been installed, he said users must treat it as a serious security incident, disconnect the handset from the internet and follow recommended safety measures. Officials said even one message or number can provide a crucial lead to identify suspects and map the broader cybercrime network.
Police also urged citizens not to delete suspicious messages. Instead, they should preserve the full text, take screenshots and share the message and sender’s mobile number with the Crime Branch’s Organised Crime Helpline.