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UPI Safety Tips: If you use UPI payments or net banking, you need to be wary of banking-related scams. Recently, a new 'Digital Lutera' malware was detected, which can steal money from your UPI account. This malware doesn't rely on calling or messaging to scam you, but directly gains access to your Android phone. Let's find out what this malware is and how to protect yourself from it.

What is 'Digital Lutera'?

Gadgets360 first reported on this malware. It doesn't operate like traditional scams, where scammers hack into a user's account by sending a link via a call or message. This is a different type of fraud toolkit that can bypass UPI bank accounts and SMS-based OTP verification. This malware enters a user's device through APK files and then performs its work once permission is granted.

How this malware works

This malware is being distributed through APK files. As soon as a user downloads the infected APK file, it will be installed on their device. During installation, this APK file will ask for permission to write and read SMS. Once permission is granted, the malware begins its work. Operating in the background, it silently monitors bank verification messages, allowing the hackers controlling the malware to hack into users' accounts.

NPCI issues clarification

NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India), which operates the UPI platform, has issued clarification on this matter. NPCI says that reports of this malware have been analyzed and adequate measures have been put in place within UPI to protect users from such risks.

How to avoid such scams?

If you use an Android phone, download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store.

If someone sends you a link via message asking you to download an APK file, refuse. Never download apps from such links.

Keep Google Play Protect on and keep your phone's software updated.