With growing excitement around the upcoming 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) — which is expected to revise salaries and pensions for millions of central government workers — cyber fraudsters are exploiting this buzz to target people with dangerous scams. The government has issued an official warning to be on high alert.

📱 What Is the 8th Pay Commission Scam?

🧠 The “Salary Calculator” Scam

Fraudsters are sending fake whatsapp messages and files claiming to help employees “check your updated salary under the 8th Pay Commission” immediately. These messages often include an attachment with names like “Salary Calculator”.

Once downloaded, the file — usually an APK (app installation file) — contains malware. Installing it on a phone can give scammers access to:

• Personal data stored on the device
• Banking details
• One‑Time Passwords (OTPs)
• Messages and contact lists

This could lead to unauthorized bank withdrawals, identity theft, or financial loss.

⚠️ Why It’s Dangerous

Cybersecurity agencies have highlighted several risks:

🔥 1. Malware Installation

The fake app masquerading as a salary calculator is designed to install harmful software that can spy on your data or control your device remotely, including accessing banking apps.

💸 2. Theft of Sensitive Information

Scammers can steal login credentials, OTPs, and financial details, which they may use to empty your bank accounts or carry out fraudulent transactions.

❗ 3. No Official government APKs

The government NEVER shares APK files or executable apps via whatsapp or SMS for pay commission updates or any such official purpose. Any such file circulating on messaging platforms is likely malicious.

📢 Official Warning and Safety Advice

🛡️ government Advisory

The Ministry of home Affairs’ Cyber Dost campaign — part of the national cyber awareness drive — has alerted employees and pensioners to the scam, stressing that these links and files are NOT official.

📌 Government’s Safety Tips

To protect yourself from this kind of scam:

• Do not download APKs or files from whatsapp or SMS links.
• Never enter personal or bank information in unknown apps or websites.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links, even if they look official or mention pay commission benefits.
• Only seek information about the 8th Pay Commission from official government channels like the MyGov portal or ministry websites.
• Report suspicious apps or messages to the cybercrime helpline or police.

🧠 How the Scam Typically Works

Here’s a simple step‑by‑step view of how fraudsters lure victims:

Scam message sent via whatsapp or SMS promises updated salary details.

Message contains an APK file or link to download an app.

Victim installs the file on their phone.

Malware runs in the background, collecting sensitive data.

Scammers use this stolen info to commit financial fraud.

🛡️ Be Extra Cautious During Pay Commission Discussions

Whenever a new pay commission is in the news — especially one as widely anticipated as the 8th Pay Commission — scammers often try to exploit emotions like excitement or impatience to trick users into unsafe actions.

Remember: Official salary revisions and arrears information will only ever be shared through formal government notifications, not through random whatsapp forwards.

📌 Summary: Scam Alert at a Glance

Issue

What You Should Know

Scam Name

“Salary Calculator” malware scam targeting 8th Pay Commission updates

Targeted Groups

Central government employees and pensioners

Method

WhatsApp/SMS with malicious APK file

Danger

Data theft, bank access, identity compromise

Govt Reminder

Never install unknown files; use official sources only

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.