Online scam : Let’s find out here how scammers are targeting you
Online scam : Online scam experts are warning WhatsApp users to stay vigilant after a spate reports of the group messaging feature being not quite what it seems. Cybercriminals, on the hunt for personal information get an added advantage now with a two billion MAU service like WhatsApp in their kitty!
Action Fraud — the UK’s national cybercrime centre, has confirmed that around 630 reports have been made this year by community groups who fell under attack from infiltrators posing as regular members and convincing them to reveal personal information.
Warnings are being issued as a scam that targets WhatsApp users with unwanted messages sent in group chats is causing experts concern. A user receiving messages of this nature would usually be confused thinking others are trying to run a scam on them. In such cases it is required to be vigilant every second and need to escalate the same complaint to that particular authority so that data leakage can save.
How Fraudsters Scam The Users
The scam typically starts when a member of the group receives an audio call on WhatsApp or another service, says Action Fraud. The fraudster will then inform the victim that they are sending them a one-time passcode, which gives him access to an upcoming video call for group members. what the criminal is actually doing here is asking for a registration code so that he can register your WhatsApp account on another device where then you loss control of it and they are going to use it as if its their own.
After gaining access to a victim’s WhatsApp account, the fraudster will activate two-step verification — without which it is impossible for the actual owner of an account to gain back control. Members of the group, or people in victims’ contacts are then messaged asking for money to be transferred with immediate help required.
Detective Superintendent Gary Miles, head of the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau at the City of London Police warned: “With more than 630 reports already this year, it is impossible for law enforcement bodies to keep ahead on their own.
WhatsApp said in response to the scam reports: “All messages sent on WhatsApp are protected by end-to-end encryption, as all users can play an important role – for years.
By Alex Mathers, Writer and Illustrator…Nov 20We advise all users to set up 2-step verification for extra security measure (and never share your six-digit PIN code with anyone — not even friends or family!)
does not believe that I do as everyone gets the exact same “special message” (normally friends or colleagues) – also calling, sometimes asking for a voice note is the best and easiest way to confirm someone is who they say they are if you receive an odd message even from someone who seems legit.
Jul 20,263 billionWhatsAppIn July 2023, WhatsApp reported over more active users across the globe. WhatsApp — officially 2 billion (2020), forecast to reach at least 3.14B by end-boarding in five years time
