Cybercriminals are again targeting WhatsApp users with complicated tricks meant to take personal information take control of accounts and get people to send money. As messages apps become a part of daily life scammers are finding new ways to fool people who are not paying attention.
One of the common tricks starts with a message that says you have won a prize need to check your account or must click a link to stop losing access to WhatsApp. These messages often make people feel like they need to act before thinking. In reality the links usually lead to websites that take login details or install harmful programs.
Another type of trick is when criminals pretend to be a friend or a family member using a phone number. They say they have changed numbers and need money away for a problem. Because the message seems personal many people send money without checking who is really asking.
WhatsApp verification code tricks are also increasing. In this case scammers try to sign up your phone number on another device. Then contact you saying they sent a six-digit code by mistake. If you give them that code they can take over your WhatsApp account. Use it to trick your friends.
People should also be careful about job offers, investment chances, cryptocurrency freebies and online shopping deals that come through WhatsApp. If something seems good to be true it probably is.
To stay safe never give your WhatsApp verification code to anyone even if they say they work for WhatsApp or support. Turn on Two-Step Verification in the settings of WhatsApp to make it harder for scammers to take over. It is also smart to avoid clicking links check money requests by calling the person directly and make sure WhatsApp is always up to date with the newest security updates.
If you think your account has been taken log back in using your phone number. This will log out anyone using it. You should also tell your contacts that your account may have been hacked so they do not get tricked by messages.
As scammers keep making tricks being careful is the best way to stay safe. A few seconds spent checking a message or confirming a request could stop you from losing money, personal details or access, to your WhatsApp account.
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