Technology Desk: The government has taken another major action against fake and illegal loan apps in India. The Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Center (I4C) of the Home Ministry directed Google to remove three dangerous loan apps from the Play Store. These apps are accused of stealing personal and sensitive data of users by promising them instant loans.

I4C's Threat Analytics Unit had identified these apps present on the Play Store. Within about three hours of receiving the notice, Google removed all three apps from the Play Store.

Which apps were removed?

The names of the three apps which were found dangerous in the government investigation are:

Horizon Cash Service
Money Score Monitor
Zelicredit
These apps claimed to provide instant loans at low interest rates and without much paperwork.

Allegation of data theft in the name of loan

According to investigation, after installing these apps in the mobile, many types of permissions were asked from the users. Through this, attempts were made to gain access to the personal information present in the phone.

This includes access to identity information, bank details, contact list, photos and cameras. It is alleged that the stolen data was used to intimidate users, blackmail and extort money.

Apps were reaching people through Google Ads

The investigation also revealed that these suspicious apps were reaching people through digital advertisements. Users used to download them after seeing attractive loan offers.

According to I4C, such cyber crime networks can also operate internationally and target Indian users.

Second major action in August

This is said to be the second major action of I4C in August against fake loan apps. Earlier on August 7, instructions were given to remove six other suspicious loan apps. These included LoanOrbit, Hisab, Nexus Loan, One Fund, Credit Factor and Mobile Credit Prairie. These apps were also accused of promising to give instant loans at low interest, obtaining data of users and charging high interest.

Action also taken on more than 57 suspicious websites

I4C's action is not limited to loan apps only. Cyber ​​agencies are also keeping an eye on suspicious websites and online platforms. This month, action was also taken against more than 57 suspicious websites hosted on Google's Firebase platform. They were suspected of being involved in cyber threats such as spreading malware and stealing financial information.

Keep these things in mind while taking online loan

Before taking an online loan, definitely check the credibility of the app. For loan, it is always better to use the official app of RBI affiliated and authorized bank or NBFC. Be wary if a loan app asks for excessive permissions, especially access to contacts, photo gallery or camera. Avoid downloading suspicious apps and first check the information about its company and loan granting institution.