Keralam Police have warned people about a new scam targeting those searching online for hospital appointment numbers and contact details.
Fraudsters are reportedly placing fake hospital phone numbers in Google search results. When people call these numbers, scammers pose as hospital staff and send APK files through WhatsApp, claiming they are required for appointment booking or other services.
Once installed, the malicious app can compromise the phone and potentially access sensitive information, including OTPs. Police said the apps can also interfere with UPI services and lead to unauthorised transactions through payment apps such as PhonePe and Google Pay.
Police have also warned users not to ignore repeated small-value transactions, particularly those below Rs 1,000, as scammers may use them to test or exploit compromised accounts.
People are advised to verify hospital contact numbers through the institution’s official website or verified social media accounts. APK files received through WhatsApp for appointments, KYC, refunds or similar purposes should not be installed.
If a suspicious app has already been installed, users should immediately disconnect the phone from the internet and contact their bank or UPI service provider. Financial fraud should also be reported immediately on 1930 or through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
