8th CPC WhatsApp Scam Exposed: One Click Can Empty Your Bank Account!

As excitement grows around the proposed 8th Pay Commission, cybercriminals are using the buzz to target central government employees and pensioners. Many people are naturally eager to know how much their salary or pension could increase once the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) is implemented.

Taking advantage of this curiosity, fraudsters are circulating WhatsApp messages that claim to provide instant salary calculations under the 8th CPC. However, these messages are part of a scam designed to steal banking details and take control of the victim’s mobile phone.

How Does The 8th CPC WhatsApp Scam Work?

The scam usually starts with a WhatsApp message that promises a salary hike estimate or a “salary calculator” for government employees. The message asks recipients to download an APK file.

An APK is an Android app installation file. Once installed, it can give criminals access to the phone. In many cases, this access allows scammers to read messages, steal OTPs, and take control of banking apps.

After this, money can be withdrawn from the victim’s bank account without their knowledge.

How to Stay Safe from the 8th CPC WhatsApp Scam?

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), through the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), has issued a public warning about this fraud. The advisory highlighted that government employees are being tricked into installing an APK file that gives fraudsters direct access to the mobile device.

Here are the most important things to keep in mind:

• The government does not send APK files through WhatsApp.
• Any link or file promising “salary hike calculation” should be treated as suspicious.
• APK files downloaded from unknown sources can contain malware.
• Scammers often use urgency and excitement to push users into quick action.

Where To Check 8th Pay Commission Updates Safely?

For official information related to salary, pension, or the 8th Pay Commission, employees and pensioners should visit only the official website: 8cpc.gov.in. 

Read more: 8th Pay Commission Website Goes Live: Govt Opens Public Consultation for Pay, Pension and Allowances.

Conclusion

The 8th Pay Commission has created genuine interest among government employees, but it has also become a tool for fraudsters. A single click on a WhatsApp link or installing a fake APK file can result in phone access being stolen and bank accounts being drained.

To stay safe, avoid downloading files from unknown sources, ignore suspicious WhatsApp forwards, and rely only on official government platforms for updates.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.