Kerala Police has warned of a cyber scam targeting users of Vivo and iQOO smartphones with fake “OriginOS Update” messages that trick users into installing malware and stealing sensitive data, including banking credentials.
According to the police statement, users are shown pop-up alerts such as “Urgent system update required” while using their phones.
Clicking on the link in such messages downloads malicious files instead of official updates, according to a statement on Monday.
Once installed, the malware gives fraudsters control of the device, enabling them to access the camera, microphone, SMS messages, contacts and other personal data.
She added that the main goal of the fraud is to withdraw money from the victims’ bank accounts.
The police advised users to install system updates only through the phone’s official “System Update” option in settings and not through links received through browsers or messages.
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Users have also been warned not to respond to threatening messages claiming that their phones will be locked if the update is not installed.
As a precaution, the police recommended keeping the “Install from Unknown Sources” option disabled and using only trusted antivirus software on mobile devices.
If the user clicks on this link by mistake, he or she should immediately disconnect the Internet, scan the device using security applications, and remove any suspicious applications.
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She added that passwords for bank accounts and social media accounts should be changed immediately using a secure device.
The police added in the statement that victims of financial fraud were advised to report incidents immediately by calling the cyber helpline No. 1930 or by filing a complaint on the National Cybercrime Portal.
