As New Year 2026 comes closer, people are busy sharing greeting messages, GIFs, and digital cards on their mobile phones. While this festive mood brings happiness, it has also opened the door to a serious cyber threat.
Cybercriminals are spreading fake “Happy New Year” greeting links through WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS, and other messaging apps.
At first glance, these messages look harmless and cheerful. However, clicking on these links can be dangerous.
Police and cybersecurity agencies have warned that these links can download a harmful APK file on your phone without your knowledge.
Once installed, this malware can access your personal data, photos, contact list, messages, and even steal bank and UPI details.
Some fake websites also promise gifts, offers, or personalized greeting cards, but in reality, they give hackers control over your phone.
Why Are New Year Greeting Scams Increasing?
During New Year celebrations, people are more active on messaging platforms and often less cautious. Cybercriminals take advantage of this situation by sending fake New Year greeting links that lead to phishing websites or malware-infected APK files.
Many people click on these links thinking they are personal wishes from friends or family. Once clicked, spyware or malware gets installed on the phone.
According to cybersecurity agencies, after infecting a device, the malware automatically sends the same scam links to contacts, helping the fraud spread quickly.
What Kind of Messages Do Scammers Send?
Scam messages often look like normal greetings or tempting offers, such as:
“Happy New Year 2026! Click to see your special greeting!”
“A special gift just for you – click now”
“Limited-time offer: 50GB free data / free gift”
These messages appear genuine, but tapping on the link redirects the user to an external website or a file download page, where a malicious APK file starts downloading.
What Happens If You Click the Link?
Once the link is clicked, several serious risks arise:
Your phone may get infected with malware
Banking apps and SMS-based OTPs can be stolen
WhatsApp or Telegram accounts can be hacked
Hackers can access photos, contacts, and personal data
Money can be transferred from your bank account in the background
This can result in financial loss and complete loss of control over your digital accounts.
Why Do Such Scams Spread More During Festivals?
Festivals and year-end celebrations are a perfect time for scammers because people expect greetings, surprises, and offers.
During happy moments, users often lower their guard and click links without checking their authenticity. This emotional vulnerability helps holiday-related scams spread rapidly.
How to Stay Safe From New Year Scam Links
To protect yourself from these scams, follow these safety tips:
Do not open unknown or suspicious links
Never install APK files from outside the Play Store or App Store
If a message seems doubtful, confirm it by calling the sender
Enable Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp
Use antivirus and mobile security apps
Never share bank, UPI details, or OTPs with anyone
