A concerning trend is being observed for many people actively using the messenger in Uzbekistan - a sharp increase in malicious APK files sent via Telegram is depriving many of their financial and personal information. According to the cybersecurity center's management, 40% of users are opening such files and turning their phones into an open door for scammers.
Jahongir Sagdullayev noted that the methods used by scammers to convince people are becoming increasingly common. For example, malicious files are distributed with attractive titles such as "Is this your picture?," "Wedding Invitation." Once a file is opened, fraudsters gain full access to the victim's phone contacts, gallery, messages, banking applications, and similar important information.
How to protect yourself?
According to experts, files sent via Telegram ending in."apk" should not be opened at all - they are required to be deleted immediately. In case of accidental activation of such a file, urgent measures must be taken:
- Disconnect the phone from the internet and switch it to "flight mode";
- Go to the "Apps" section and delete any suspicious software installed recently;
- If the scammers have penetrated too deep into the system, it is recommended to save all data in a safe place and return the phone to its full "factory state";
- If various payment services are connected to the phone, it is important to temporarily disable SMS notifications.
A bot that automatically removes malicious files has been launched
The Cybersecurity Center has launched a new @cybershielduz_bot. Adding it to a group or channel protects all users in that location from harmful APK files. If such a file is sent, the bot will automatically delete it.
With growing activity on Telegram, risks are also increasing. Therefore, experts urge users to be vigilant and carefully check the source before opening any file. In today's digital world, it is once again proven that the strongest protection is caution.
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