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It started with “a lucky find”. While browsing online last month, a Bengaluru store manager came across an application called ‘Tuby’ that promised free access to OTT platforms, eliminating the need for a paid subscription. Tempted by the offer, he downloaded and installed the application on his smartphone.What appeared to be a shortcut to free entertainment soon turned into a costly mistake. It was later revealed that the app was fake and designed to compromise users’ devices and banking information. Before the victim could even realise something was wrong, over Rs 1 lakh had been siphoned from his bank account.“Free Netflix”, “Premium OTT access at zero cost”, “Unlimited movies without subscription,” such offers frequently appear on social media platforms. While they may seem like harmless shortcuts, cybersecurity experts warn that they are often traps designed to install malware, steal banking credentials or gain access to a user’s device.
Ways to reduce digital expenses
Deependra Singh, cyber security expert with Betul police, Madhya Pradesh, told indianexpress.com, “Nowadays, cybercriminals are taking advantage of people’s desire for free content. With OTT subscriptions becoming increasingly expensive and content being spread across multiple platforms, many users are drawn to unofficial apps and APK files. Scammers exploit this tendency.” Singh said whether it is a major sporting event, a blockbuster movie release, or exclusive streaming content, they launch fake apps using the names of popular brands and events.
He added that while many people think they are simply accessing free content, in reality, they may be giving criminals access to their phones and personal data.
“These apps often request permissions for SMS, contacts, notifications, accessibility features, or even device administrator privileges. Once granted, such permissions can allow attackers to compromise personal data, intercept OTPs, and gain access to user accounts. In some cases, malicious apps are also difficult to remove from the device,” Singh said.
Zakir Hussain Rangwala, CEO of BD Software Distribution Pvt Ltd, said, “People are constantly looking for ways to reduce digital expenses. With multiple streaming platforms hosting exclusive content, many users feel compelled to subscribe to several services simultaneously. Unofficial apps exploit this frustration by promising free access to movies, sports, and OTT content in one place.”Story continues below this ad
He said this happens because of a combination of all four factors — subscription fatigue, rising costs, convenience, and lack of awareness. Subscription fatigue is real because users now need multiple subscriptions to access different content libraries. Rising costs make people seek cheaper alternatives, while unofficial apps offer the convenience of aggregating content in one place. Lack of cybersecurity awareness further worsens the problem, as many users assume an app that looks professional is safe, said Rangwala. “Cybercriminals understand these behavioural patterns and design fake applications specifically to exploit cost-conscious and convenience-driven consumers,” he said.
The risks extend far beyond monetary losses. He said fake streaming apps can secretly install malware, spyware, or remote access tools that allow cybercriminals to monitor user activity and steal sensitive information. “Personal data such as login credentials, emails, photos, contacts, and banking details can be harvested and sold on underground markets. Some apps may also compromise device performance, disable security features, or turn infected devices into part of larger cybercrime operations. In many cases, victims remain unaware of the compromise for months,” he explained.
He added that cybercriminals increasingly misuse the names and visual identities of well-known streaming and entertainment platforms because trust is easy to exploit. “When people recognise a familiar brand or service category, they tend to low
