Authorities are warning of a rise in scams delivered through text messages, messaging apps, and fake job or investment offers. One scheme involves unsolicited job offers referencing companies such as Temu, sent via text or messaging platforms. These offers often come from self-described recruiters using names like 'Monica' or 'Juliana.' Temu itself has warned the public not to respond to such messages. A separate threat targets WhatsApp users with images embedded with malware using steganography. In a recent case in Jabalpur, India, a man lost nearly ₹2 lakh after downloading an infected image. The malware can steal banking credentials and passwords, often bypassing antivirus protections. The Department of Telecom has issued an advisory, and WhatsApp is planning updates to address this threat. Cybersecurity experts have identified VPN applications such as MaskVPN, DewVPN, PaladinVPN, ProxyGate, ShieldVPN, and ShineVPN as being part of botnets used for criminal activities. Users are advised to verify app authenticity and avoid downloading from untrusted sources. Officials reported the recovery of $868,247 in cryptocurrency after exposing a confidence scheme that lured victims through fake investment platforms. Scammers typically contact victims via misdirected texts, dating apps, or networking groups, convincing them to transfer funds to fraudulent cryptocurrency accounts. Experts recommend enabling two-factor authentication, keeping software updated, and exercising caution with unsolicited messages, unknown contacts, and suspicious apps to reduce the risk of these scams.