WhatsApp users have been issued a warning about a highly intelligent scam where fraudsters steal access to your phone.
The well-thought-out scam sees fraudsters posing as your friend or someone that’s a member of a WhatsApp group you’re in and will subsequently send you normal messages to start up a conversation.
As this happens, you will also receive a text message from WhatsApp with a six-digit code because the scammer has attempted to log in to WhatsApp using your mobile number.
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Next, the criminal will claim that the code was sent by accident, in turn asking you to help them out by sending it to them.
Once they have this code, then the scammers can easily log in to your WhatsApp account, locking you out in the process.
The scammers will then enact the same tactic with all of your WhatsApp contacts in a bid to gain access to more accounts and do the same thing again.
To date, Action Fraud has received a whopping number of complaints from people regarding the scam.
To protect yourself, here is what you need to do:
- Set up two-step verification to give an extra layer of protection to your account. Tap Settings > Account >Two-step verification > Enable.
- STOP. THINK. CALL. If a family member or friend makes an unusual request on WhatsApp, always call the person to confirm their identity.
- Never share your account’s activation code (that’s the 6 digit code you receive via SMS)
You can report spam messages or block a sender within WhatsApp. Press and hold on the message bubble, select ‘Report’ and then follow the instructions. If you have ever been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud online or by calling them on 0300 123 2040.
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