New Delhi, February 15: A major cyber fraud alert has been issued for central government employees and pensioners as scammers exploit excitement around the upcoming 8th Pay Commission. Authorities warn that fake “Salary Calculator” APK files circulating on WhatsApp are being used to hack mobile phones and siphon money from bank accounts.

The warning has been amplified by Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Cyber Dost initiative, which flagged a surge in malicious Android Application Package files being shared through messaging platforms.

8th Pay Commission Salary Calculator APK Scam Alert Issued to Govt Employees

What Is the 8th Pay Commission Salary Calculator Scam?

Fraudsters are sending WhatsApp messages claiming to offer an exclusive salary calculation tool for revised pay under the 8th Pay Commission. These messages typically include:

• A downloadable APK file named “Salary Calculator” or similar

• Promises of early access to revised pay structure

• Official sounding language to build trust

Once installed, the APK gives cybercriminals remote access to the victim’s device.

How the Malicious APK Drains Bank Accounts

Cyber experts say the fake application can:

• Capture One Time Passwords sent via SMS

• Access banking apps

• Read personal messages

• Steal login credentials

• Execute unauthorized financial transactions

In many reported cases, victims realize the fraud only after significant funds have been withdrawn.

Authorities stress that the government does not release official calculators, software tools, or pay revision details through WhatsApp, Telegram, or other social media platforms. All official notifications are issued via verified government websites and gazette publications. 8th Pay Commission: When Will Salary Hike Be Implemented and How Much Arrears Can Central Govt Employees Expect?

Why the 8th Pay Commission Is Being Targeted

With millions of central employees awaiting clarity on salary revisions and Dearness Allowance updates, misinformation around the 8th Pay Commission has become widespread. The anticipation has created an opportunity for scammers to launch highly targeted phishing attacks. 8th Pay Commission: Will Pensioners Who Retired Before December 31, 2025 Get Revised Benefits? Centre Clarifies.

In recent months, fact check units have also debunked viral claims regarding DA stoppages and other fabricated policy changes.

How Govt Employees Can Stay Safe

Authorities recommend the following precautions:

• Never download APK files from WhatsApp or unknown sources

• Disable installation from unknown sources in phone settings

• Verify updates only through official government portals

• Immediately report suspicious messages at the national cybercrime portal

Cyber officials emphasise that vigilance is critical as fraud tactics continue to evolve with increasingly sophisticated digital tools.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 15, 2026 08:57 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).