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MHA Blocks 'Wingo' Fraud App, Issues Warning to Android Users on SMS Scam

The Ministry of Home Affairs has geo-blocked the command and control servers of the 'Wingo' app, describing it as a 'Telecom Mule as a Service' platform. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre issued a public warning, advising citizens against using the app which sent fraudulent SMS from Android phones without knowledge. The crackdown also involved blocking four Telegram channels and over 53 YouTube videos promoting the app. The I4C reiterated its commitment to dismantling organized cyber fraud ecosystems and safeguarding citizens.

Key Points: MHA Blocks Wingo App, Warns of SMS Fraud

  • MHA geo-blocks Wingo app servers
  • App sent fraudulent SMS without user knowledge
  • I4C warns Android users to remain vigilant
  • Crackdown includes blocking Telegram & YouTube channels
2 min read

MHA blocks 'Wingo' app to curb SMS fraud, issues warning to Android users

MHA geo-blocks Wingo app servers, warns Android users against SMS fraud. I4C cracks down on 'Telecom Mule as a Service' platform.

"Wingo App... is a 'Telecom Mule as a Service' App, and that citizens are advised to refrain from using the same. - I4C"

New Delhi, January 30

The Ministry of Home Affairs has "geo-blocked" the command and control servers linked to the 'Wingo' app network to disrupt its operations, describing it as a "telecom mule as a service" platform that offers earnings based on SMS tasks.

Additionally, four Telegram channels with around 1.53 lakh subscribers and over 53 related YouTube videos promoting the app were blocked as part of the MHA crackdown against the 'Wingo' app.

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA has also issued a public warning against the 'Wingo' app, pointing out that "Wingo App, which provides earning based on SMS Task is a 'Telecom Mule as a Service' App, and that citizens are advised to refrain from using the same."

Advising citizens to refrain from downloading or using the application, the I4C cautioned Android users to remain vigilant against such malicious apps.

Officials said the app was being used to send fraudulent SMS messages from users' Android phones without their knowledge, raising serious concerns over misuse of telecom resources and cyber fraud.

Taking swift action, the MHA's cyber wing geo-blocked the Command and Control servers linked to the Wingo network.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding citizens from cybercrime and urged the public to report suspicious applications or activities through official cybercrime reporting platforms.

The I4C was established by the MHA to provide a comprehensive, coordinated framework for addressing cybercrime in the country. It serves as the central agency for addressing cybercrime and works closely with state and Union Territory law enforcement agencies.

I4C plays a key role in identifying emerging cyber threats, analysing cybercrime trends, and coordinating large-scale crackdowns on fraud networks operating through malicious apps, fake websites, mule accounts, and social media platforms.

It also works with telecom service providers, internet intermediaries, and global technology platforms to block illegal digital infrastructure, including phishing domains, fraudulent apps, and Command-and-Control servers used by cybercriminals.

The recent action against the Wingo app is part of I4C's continued efforts to dismantle organised cyber fraud ecosystems and prevent misuse of telecom and digital platforms for criminal activities.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
My cousin installed this last month! His phone started sending weird SMS to unknown numbers and his battery drained fast. We had to factory reset it. These fraudsters are getting clever. Thank you I4C for the warning and action.
A
Aman W
While the action is appreciated, the government needs to do more on awareness. Many in smaller towns and villages are not tech-savvy. They fall for these traps easily. Cyber safety should be part of school curriculum.
P
Priyanka N
"Telecom Mule as a Service" sounds so technical but it's just theft. Using people's phones to send scam messages without their knowledge is a serious breach. Hope the people behind this are caught soon. Jai Hind!
D
David E
Working in IT security, I see these threats daily. The geo-blocking of C&C servers is a crucial step. However, these networks often pop up elsewhere. Continuous monitoring and public-private partnership is key. Good start by I4C.
K
Kavya N
Blocking the YouTube videos and Telegram channels is very important. That's where they recruit people. My brother's friend was doing "tasks" for them thinking it was a legit part-time job. We need to educate our youth about digital literacy.

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