Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli: In a proactive move to safeguard the public from a fast-spreading cyber threat, the Tirunelveli District Cyber Crime Police has issued an important warning regarding a new scam making rounds on WhatsApp — dubbed the WhatsApp Photo Malware Scam.
Cybercriminals are reportedly sending seemingly innocent images via WhatsApp from unknown numbers. Hidden within these images is malicious software, embedded through a technique known as steganography. The moment users tap to view these images, the malware activates, compromising the victim’s phone. This allows hackers to stealthily access sensitive data such as bank account information, passwords, OTPs, and UPI credentials — and in some cases, even remotely control the device, all without the user’s knowledge or consent.
What makes this scam particularly dangerous is that it doesn’t prompt the usual OTP verification alerts, enabling illegal withdrawals and data theft without raising immediate suspicion.
Thanks to the vigilance and swift communication efforts of the Tirunelveli District Police, led by Superintendent of Police Mr. N. Silambarasan, IPS, the public has been alerted in time to prevent potential damage. The SP has strongly advised the public not to open or interact with images received from unknown WhatsApp numbers and to report any suspicious activity immediately via the national cybercrime portal www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the toll-free helpline 1930.
This timely intervention by the Tirunelveli Police once again highlights their commitment to public safety and digital security, earning widespread appreciation from citizens and reinforcing trust in law enforcement’s role in combating modern-day cyber-crime.
Our Citizen Reporter – Tirunelveli
Mr. Shanmuganathan
