Fake apps launched by cyber fraudsters ahead of Gruha Lakshmi rollout

BENGALURU: Ahead of the rollout of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, many fake apps have been launched by cyber fraudsters. If mobile phone users download such fake apps from the Play Store, they may fall into the fraudsters’ trap and their bank accounts may be hacked.

The Gruha Lakshmi scheme is one among the five guarantees announced by the Congress ahead of the Assembly polls.

The cabinet has given its approval to the launch of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, and the application process will start in a few weeks. But there are many cases where fake applications have already been launched in the name of ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ to mislead intended beneficiaries. If people downloaded these applications, cyber criminals will hack their bank accounts and siphon off the money.

Cyber expert Shubhamangala said there are about five to six fake apps under the name ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ on the Google Play Store. These fake apps are quite similar to the government’s app. The complete information about these schemes is also given in the fake apps. “The apps ask for some sensitive information, like bank account number to register a name. With this, we are making it easier for them to get personal details. Women should be careful before applying through online links that surface on social media pages. If the app is fake or hangs while uploading information, do not share any details”, she advised.

Cyber expert Shubhamangala said the app users must be careful while sharing personal details online.

Those applying for the scheme benefits should be careful about fake apps. If they cannot distinguish between the fake one and the genuine, they can approach recommended centres like BangaloreOne, she added.

Earlier, during the launch of the Gruha Jyothi scheme, cyber criminals had tried to hack bank accounts by sending fake links on phones. Now hackers are trying to mislead people and making efforts to use government schemes to make a quick buck.