In an era where mobile devices are central to everyday life, cybercriminals are exploiting trusted social networks like WhatsApp and Telegram to spread malicious apps, costing crores of rupees to unsuspecting victims across India. TraceX Labs, a leading Indian cybersecurity research and threat intelligence company, has launched TraceX Guard, a Made-in-India AI-powered real-time mobile security app, to provide a robust defence against this growing threat.
According to TraceX Labs, traditional antivirus apps are no longer enough. Modern malware spreads faster, hides better, and exploits social trust networks. TraceX Guard is designed to be a complete, all-in-one solution that can detect and block these advanced threats in real time, making it more effective than existing antivirus apps and competitive with international solutions like Avast and Quick Heal.
Crores Lost to Trojanised APKs
The spread of malicious mobile applications is one of the fastest-growing cyber frauds in India. Investigations by TraceX Labs show that fraudsters are no longer relying on cold-call phishing or random SMS scams. Instead, they distribute trojanised APK files disguised as legitimate services, using WhatsApp and Telegram to reach thousands of users quickly.
A recent campaign highlights the scale of the problem. Cybercriminals sent fake traffic violation alerts claiming to be from the government. Users were asked to download what appeared to be the official NextGen mParivahan app, developed by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. These messages were highly convincing, complete with ticket numbers and vehicle registration details, but the app was actually malware designed to steal sensitive information.
Other examples of malicious apps identified by TraceX Labs include:
RTO Challan / E-Challan APK
Wedding Invitation APKs
Adult-themed apps such as Bhabhi Calling or Video Call APKs
Once installed, these apps quietly embed themselves into the device, stealing data, accessing banking apps, and spreading further through the victim’s own contacts. The infected device becomes a trusted messenger, creating a chain reaction that spreads malware quickly across personal networks.
“Fraudsters exploit trust within social networks. Crores of rupees have already been lost, and the scale is growing every day,” said a TraceX Labs cybersecurity analyst.
The Danger of Remote Access Trojans
At the core of these apps are Remote Access Trojans (RATs) — specialised malware that gives attackers complete control over the infected device. RATs can:
Intercept SMS messages, including OTPs
Manipulate mobile banking apps
Access photos, files, and contacts
Remotely activate the microphone and camera
This makes it possible for cybercriminals to steal money, misuse digital identities, and commit fraud, all while the user remains unaware. Financial losses can occur within minutes once permissions are granted.
The rapid spread of trojanised APKs is accelerated by social engineering, as download links come from known contacts, making apps appear legitimate. This tactic preys on trust, creating a dangerous cycle of infections.
TraceX Labs stresses that if TraceX Guard had been installed on victims’ phones, these attacks could have been stopped instantly. The app provides real-time AI-driven protection, blocks malicious apps, and prevents hackers from accessing sensitive data.
Unlike traditional antivirus apps, TraceX Guard is designed for modern threats and is competitive with top international antivirus solutions. It gives users the confidence that their smartphones are protected against even the most sophisticated malware campaigns.
TraceX Guard is available now at https://tracexlabs.com
.
How Users Can Stay Safe
TraceX Labs advises users to:
Only install apps from trusted sources such as Google Play or Apple App Store
Avoid clicking links from WhatsApp or Telegram, even if sent by known contacts
Be cautious of apps requesting SMS or Accessibility permissions without reason
Install TraceX Guard to protect devices in real time
If a malicious app has already been installed, victims should uninstall the app immediately, reset banking credentials, and report the incident via 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.
A Call for Awareness
TraceX Labs continues to work with law enforcement agencies and victims to investigate these malware campaigns. Their analysts warn that while scams are being operated across India, certain hubs remain especially active.
“The era of cold-call phishing is over. The new threat is trojanised APKs spreading through personal networks. Staying vigilant, questioning every unsolicited download, and practicing strict digital hygiene are essential,” the firm concluded.
TraceX Guard provides Indian users with a strong, reliable, and AI-powered defence against these modern cyber threats, making it one of the best mobile security solutions on the market today.
About TraceX Labs
TraceX Labs is a leading Indian cybersecurity company focusing on mobile security, threat intelligence, and digital forensics. Its mission is to provide AI-driven solutions that protect citizens from evolving cybercrime, while collaborating with law enforcement to keep communities safe.
For more information, visit https://tracexlabs.com
