Identifying Scams on WhatsApp: Tips for Avoiding Fraud

WhatsApp is undoubtedly one of the most used apps in India and some other regions around the world. However, due to its popularity, the frequency of scams and malicious parties harming users has increased.

Fraudsters are using new tactics to trick unsuspecting victims into revealing sensitive information, allowing call forwarding or even accidentally giving attackers access to their WhatsApp accounts.

Here we explore how to identify WhatsApp scams and examine some of the scams that are currently common

Got a lucrative job offer or something that seems too good to be true?

This is a common method used by cybercriminals today to trick victims. They offer victims lucrative offers, sometimes even giving them money to build trust. Later, after the victim has been trapped with a significant investment, the scammers disappear – with money or sensitive information. As a general rule of thumb, never enjoy such offers on WhatsApp. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.

Giveaway Links – Railway, Govt Yojana

Have you ever received a WhatsApp broadcast promising a new iPhone 15 if you message 5 people with their email ID? This is another common way to steal email IDs and passwords, so never trust these giveaways and other links asking for your personal information.

Did you download a suspicious app? Bank APK perhaps?

Fraudsters use sophisticated methods where they modify APKs of banking apps, infect them with malicious code, and then send these infected apps to victims. Often, scammers pose as bank agents and contact you through fake phishing sites asking you to install an app for support. People often install these apps without thinking and enter their sensitive banking information. Never do this as it is a scam and the same technique has been used in other types of scams.

Calls from international numbers

Recently, there have also been calls from abroad. If you receive such calls, never answer them. instead, report and block them as soon as you get one. WhatsApp has also taken steps to curb these calls, but if you receive one, be sure to reject it and don’t answer.

Avoid clicking random links

It is common practice for hackers and cybercriminals to send infected links to users. When a user clicks on the link, it usually takes them to a phishing site or even directly infects their device with malware or other hacking agents. If a random number texts you with a link or tries to get you to do something urgent, be aware that they may be trying to scam you.

To stay safe from such scams, you can enable security features like two-factor authentication for WhatsApp and avoid clicking on links or sharing personal documents and information with random people who contact you.