WhatsApp Users Targeted in New Scam Involving Account Takeovers
Authorities report surge in cases where scammers trick users into sharing verification codes, hijack accounts, and impersonate contacts
WhatsApp users are being warned about a growing scam involving account takeovers by cybercriminals posing as friends or family.
The scheme typically begins with a WhatsApp call or message from someone using a fake profile photo and name to impersonate a trusted contact.
Victims are told that a one-time code will be sent to them as part of a group video call registration process.
In reality, the code is the WhatsApp security verification code that allows access to the user’s account.
Once the code is shared, the scammer logs into the victim’s WhatsApp account and activates two-step verification, effectively locking out the original user.
The scammer then messages the victim’s contacts, requesting emergency financial help while posing as the victim.
Reports indicate that hundreds of thousands of pounds have been transferred by users thinking they were helping relatives or friends.
To prevent such takeovers, authorities recommend enabling two-step verification within WhatsApp settings.
Users are also advised never to share verification codes and to verify unexpected requests through a phone call or voice message.
The scam has affected users on other messaging platforms as well, including Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat.
WhatsApp, used by over two billion people globally, remains a primary target for fraud due to its wide reach and personal contact lists.
The scheme typically begins with a WhatsApp call or message from someone using a fake profile photo and name to impersonate a trusted contact.
Victims are told that a one-time code will be sent to them as part of a group video call registration process.
In reality, the code is the WhatsApp security verification code that allows access to the user’s account.
Once the code is shared, the scammer logs into the victim’s WhatsApp account and activates two-step verification, effectively locking out the original user.
The scammer then messages the victim’s contacts, requesting emergency financial help while posing as the victim.
Reports indicate that hundreds of thousands of pounds have been transferred by users thinking they were helping relatives or friends.
To prevent such takeovers, authorities recommend enabling two-step verification within WhatsApp settings.
Users are also advised never to share verification codes and to verify unexpected requests through a phone call or voice message.
The scam has affected users on other messaging platforms as well, including Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat.
WhatsApp, used by over two billion people globally, remains a primary target for fraud due to its wide reach and personal contact lists.
AI Disclaimer: An advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system generated the content of this page on its own. This innovative technology conducts extensive research from a variety of reliable sources, performs rigorous fact-checking and verification, cleans up and balances biased or manipulated content, and presents a minimal factual summary that is just enough yet essential for you to function as an informed and educated citizen. Please keep in mind, however, that this system is an evolving technology, and as a result, the article may contain accidental inaccuracies or errors. We urge you to help us improve our site by reporting any inaccuracies you find using the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of this page. Your helpful feedback helps us improve our system and deliver more precise content. When you find an article of interest here, please look for the full and extensive coverage of this topic in traditional news sources, as they are written by professional journalists that we try to support, not replace. We appreciate your understanding and assistance.
