Police warn against mobile phone hacking and fraud in Chattogram

Chattogram District Police have warned that cyber fraud cases are increasing, driven by security gaps in mobile phones and users’ carelessness.

Personal data, including banking information and bKash and Nagad accounts, is increasingly at risk.

According to Chattogram District Police, fraudsters can easily gain access to users’ phones by enabling certain settings or installing unfamiliar apps.

The Media Wing of Chattogram District Police sent the alert to various media outlets yesterday (18 May).

They said that keeping the “Unknown App Install” option enabled or installing unverified APK files can allow malware to enter devices and steal sensitive information. There is also a risk of phone takeover through the misuse of remote access applications such as AnyDesk and TeamViewer.

The police further warned that fake apps targeting Accessibility and Notification Access permissions can collect OTPs, passwords, and private messages.

In the advisory, police reiterated that users must never share OTPs, PINs, or card details with anyone claiming to be from a bank, bKash, or Nagad. They also advised against clicking links related to “account suspension” or “urgent updates”.

For safer digital practices, police stressed installing apps only from the Google Play Store, disabling unnecessary applications and permissions, and keeping Google Play Protect activated.

The police added that awareness is the most effective defence against fraud, warning that even minor negligence can lead to significant financial losses.