Amid the recent updates to the Uzbek Latin-based alphabet, malicious actors have launched a new wave of cyber fraud targeting local messaging app users. Fraudsters are reportedly distributing installation files for smartphone keyboards that supposedly feature the newly approved characters, attempting to trick citizens into downloading compromised software.

According to cybersecurity warnings, instead of the promised application, victims download spyware capable of intercepting personal passwords, reading private chats, and breaching financial data. Security experts continue to urge the public to avoid downloading unknown applications or interacting with unverified links sent through direct messages.

This fraudulent activity coincides with official regulatory changes. On October 21, President Shavkat Mirziyoey reportedly signed a law amending the Uzbek alphabet. The update replaces traditional combinations such as O‘ and G‘ with Ö ö and Ğ ğ, while Sh and Ch are substituted with Ş ş and Ç ç, with authorities stating the transition will be implemented gradually.

This incident follows previous security breaches in the region. Earlier reports indicated that clients of twelve commercial banks in the country were targeted by the Android malware known as RedWing Stealer, which was cunningly disguised as VPN services, gaming modifications, and other seemingly harmless utilities.

Source: podrobno.uz