The government on Friday blocked the ‘Wingo’ application network and warned Android phone users of an SMS scam being run by its makers by which fraudulent SMS messages are sent from users’ Android phones without their knowledge.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) “geo-blocked” the command and control servers linked to the ‘Wingo’ app network to disrupt its operations, describing it as a “telecom mule as a service” platform that offers earnings based on SMS tasks.
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA has also issued a public warning against the app, saying, “Wingo App, which provides earning based on SMS Task is a ‘Telecom Mule as a Service’ App, and that citizens are advised to refrain from using the same”.
Additionally, four Telegram channels with around 1.53 lakh subscribers and over 53 related YouTube videos promoting the app were also blocked as part of the MHA crackdown against the app.
Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding citizens from cybercrime, the ministry advised citizens against downloading or using the application, and cautioned Android users to remain vigilant against such malicious apps. It urged the public to report suspicious applications or activities through official cybercrime reporting platforms.
Also Read: WinZO duped players of ₹734 crore using bots: ED
The I4C was established by the MHA to provide a comprehensive and coordinated framework for addressing cybercrime in the country.
It serves as the central agency for addressing cybercrime and works closely with state and Union Territory law enforcement agencies.
Its main role involves identifying emerging cyber threats, analysing cybercrime trends, and coordinating large-scale crackdowns on fraud networks operating through malicious apps, fake websites, mule accounts, and social media platforms.
It also works with telecom service providers, internet intermediaries, and global technology platforms to block illegal digital infrastructure, including phishing domains, fraudulent apps, and command-and-control servers used by cybercriminals.
The recent action against the Wingo app is part of I4C’s continued efforts to dismantle organised cyber fraud ecosystems and prevent misuse of telecom and digital platforms for criminal activities.
Follow us
