Ludhiana: In a shocking incident, hackers have sent messages to nearly 900 people from the compromised mobile phone of Ludhiana’s Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) East, Sumit Sood. The hacking attempt came to light before the culprits could target more individuals. ACP Sood lodged a formal complaint with the Ludhiana Cyber Cell on Monday.

Following the complaint, the cyber cell launched an investigation to identify and trace the hackers. ACP Sood stated that he was out of town when the hacking occurred. When messages were sent from his phone, many people tried to contact him but were unable to reach him.

No One Defrauded, Says ACP
ACP Sood clarified that no one had been defrauded through the messages sent from his phone. “As soon as I reached Ludhiana, I filed a complaint with the cyber cell. Messages were sent to around 900 people, and about 400 have spoken to me personally. Fortunately, no one was cheated,” he said.

He further appealed to the public, urging anyone who might have been deceived by messages sent in his name to contact him directly. “This will help us understand the kind of fraud attempted and assist the cyber cell in its investigation,” he added.

Police Launch Awareness Drive
After receiving information about the hacking incident, Ludhiana Police immediately began an awareness campaign. Officers prepared video slides and posters warning people not to trust challan-related messages sent from personal mobile numbers.

The police advised citizens not to click on any links or download files attached to such messages, especially APK files, which could compromise mobile data or lead to financial fraud.

Ludhiana Police’s Public Appeal
In a public advisory, the Ludhiana Police stated:

“Jai Hind. Ludhiana Police urges you not to click on any challan-related message received on WhatsApp. Cyber criminals are attempting to defraud people by sending such messages. Do not download any APK file that accompanies these messages.”

The police have urged residents to stay vigilant and immediately report any suspicious messages or fraudulent activity to the cyber cell.