PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BBRI) has issued a stern warning to the public about the dangers of downloading illegal APK (Android Package) files. These files, often sourced from unverified platforms, can serve as gateways for malware, risking data theft and financial loss.

BRI's Director of Digital & Information Technology, Arga M. Nugraha, emphasized the growing complexity of cyber threats. “Digital security is our top priority. We encourage users to only download apps from official sources, such as the Google Play Store. This is a crucial first step to protecting devices and personal data,” he stated on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Data theft risks are notably high when malware infiltrates devices via counterfeit apps. Such apps can exploit sensitive information, including banking credentials, and manipulate device settings. Cybercriminals frequently masquerade as trusted institutions to deceive victims into installing harmful applications.

To combat these threats, BRI strongly advises users to activate Google’s Play Protect feature. This tool automatically detects and blocks malicious apps. Additionally, users should disable the installation of apps from unknown sources in their device settings and avoid enabling unnecessary permissions.

Arga also urged users to regularly update mobile banking apps to the latest versions. “Keeping your apps updated ensures you benefit from enhanced security measures,” he added.

BRI further outlined emergency steps for suspected malware infections. These include disabling access to banking apps, contacting the BRI Call Center (1500-017), and performing a factory reset to restore device security.

IDX