Users Advised to Follow 3 Safety Rules to Avoid WhatsApp Scam

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting WhatsApp, prompting users to adopt three essential safety measures to protect their accounts. A new scam, which has gained traction across Europe, threatens to lock users out of their accounts and compromise their personal information. With billions of users worldwide, WhatsApp remains a prime target for hackers seeking to exploit unsuspecting individuals.

This latest threat involves a deceptive message that appears to come from a known contact. The message typically reads: “Hi! Please vote for Adeline in this contest, she’s the daughter of a close friend. The main prize is a scholarship abroad. Thank you so much!” The seemingly innocent request lures users into clicking a link to a fraudulent voting website.

Once on the site, victims are prompted to provide their phone number and a verification code sent to their device. This process grants cybercriminals full access to the victim’s WhatsApp account, allowing them to lock the original user out and target their contacts. Bitdefender, a cybersecurity firm, has reported that this scam has affected thousands of users over the past two months, with hackers utilizing 177 fraudulent domains and 554 unique URLs.

Bitdefender explained the mechanics of the scam: “This gives attackers instant access to their accounts, which they then use to propagate the scam and defraud new victims of money.” As the scam continues to spread, it has primarily targeted users in Germany, Poland, and Romania, raising concerns that the UK may be next.

To help users safeguard their accounts, Bitdefender has issued several recommendations:

– **Never share your WhatsApp verification code** with anyone, including friends or family.
– **Verify requests for money or favors** through a direct phone call to the person making the request.
– **Report suspicious messages** in WhatsApp using the “More → Report” option.

If users fall victim to the scam, Bitdefender advises taking immediate action. Users should attempt to regain control by requesting a new verification code and inform their contacts about the compromised account. Furthermore, if any money has been transferred, it is crucial to notify the relevant bank.

As cyber threats evolve, staying informed and vigilant is essential for ensuring the safety of personal information on messaging platforms like WhatsApp.