Police flag possibility of cyber fraudsters using fake TV apps during FIFA World Cup

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With the commencement of FIFA World Cup 2026, the Kerala Police have cautioned against cyber frauds that target football fans through social media platforms.

The scam begins through fake APK download links which are promoted under names such as HZ TV, OPEN TV, NB TV, MAX TV, XM TV and TUBI TV that are designed to appear like official applications.

After installation, such applications display messages such as ‘Update Required,’ ‘Activate Subscription’ and ‘Enable Service’ in order to prompt users to activate them. Through this process, the applications obtain permissions, including accessibility service, screen overlay and notification access. The fraudsters then gain access to various applications on the device without the owner’s knowledge or consent.

According to the police, the fraudsters can take complete control of the mobile phone and illegally withdraw money from bank accounts through UPI applications.

The Kerala Police have advised the public not to install APK files received through social media for watching FIFA World Cup matches. Applications should be downloaded only from official platforms such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The public have also been urged to immediately report cyberfrauds through the Cyber Helpline number 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Portal on https://cybercrime.gov.in.