Kerala Police have warned football fans against fake streaming apps that could steal personal and banking information during the FIFA World Cup 2026
Kerala Police on Thursday warned football fans about cyber fraudsters using fake streaming applications to exploit excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026.
According to the State Police Media Centre, scammers are circulating advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, WhatsApp and YouTube, offering free access to FIFA World Cup matches, premium OTT content and hundreds of television channels.
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These advertisements often carry slogans such as “FIFA World Cup Live Free” and direct users to download unofficial applications with names that resemble legitimate streaming services. Some of the reported app names include HZ TV, OPEN TV, NB TV, MAX TV, XM TV and TUBI TV.
Police said that once installed, the applications prompt users to approve software updates, activate subscriptions and grant various permissions. These permissions may include Accessibility Service, Screen Overlay and Notification Access.
Granting such permissions can significantly weaken a device’s security, allowing cyber criminals to gain control of the phone without the owner's knowledge. Fraudsters may then access banking and UPI applications, leading to unauthorised financial transactions and theft of funds.
As part of its advisory, Kerala Police urged people not to install application files received through social media links. Users have been advised to download apps only through official sources such as the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
The police also warned users to be cautious of applications requesting excessive permissions, especially those involving screen control, accessibility functions or installation from unknown sources.
People were further advised to regularly review the security settings of their banking and payment applications and avoid forwarding suspicious links to friends and family members.
Authorities said anyone who becomes a victim of cyber financial fraud should immediately report the incident through the cybercrime helpline 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
The advisory comes as football fans across the world prepare to follow the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.
Published: 11 Jun 2026, 09:49 pm IST
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