'Is This Really You?': The Alarming Rise of WhatsApp Impersonation Scams

Imagine receiving a WhatsApp message from your daughter. It begins with ‘Hey mum’ and relates a convincing story about her phone being stolen. This is why she is using an unknown number. 

She says she urgently needs money and gives the bank details for a transfer. You would probably transfer that money right away and become the victim of a WhatsApp scam. Scammers will often masquerade as familiar contacts and create a sense of urgency. WhatsApp is generally quite safe but impersonation scams are increasing and you need to be aware of them.

Image Credit: Pixels

What is WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is the most-used mobile messaging service in the world with well over two billion users. It is free to use and runs on both Android phones and iPhones. WhatsApp uses encryption but this doesn’t mean it can’t be hacked. WhatsApp scams are usually in the form of social engineering. The aim is to trick victims into revealing their personal details, clicking malicious links, or sending money.

There are certain questions in users' minds related to the security features of the app. It’s natural because the online world is highly unsafe if security measures are not followed properly. Common questions related to WhatsApp are many. Is WhatsApp safe to use? What would you do if your WhatsApp account was hacked? Is WhatsApp safe from hackers? These are common questions you may ask when using WhatsApp. Learning about WhatsApp scams and the deceptions of WhatsApp scammers can help to protect you when using the platform. A WhatsApp scammer list offers all the common scams you need to know about and avoid. If you ever have a gut feeling that your WhatsApp hacked, it’s important to take action rather than ignore it.

Why do scammers use WhatsApp?

Is WhatsApp safe from scammers? Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Encryption does make it harder for them but they can find ways around it. It is easy to create an account on WhatsApp. There aren’t that many requirements so scammers can create and operate many fake profiles. There are ways they can avoid providing their actual phone numbers during registration.

Common WhatsApp scams

Knowing about the common scams circulating on WhatsApp can help you to avoid them.

1. Verification code scams

You will receive a message via WhatsApp claiming to be from support. It will ask you to verify your account. You may get a link or a code to enter. If you click the link, you could end up on a malicious website that steals your personal information or infects your device with malware. If you send a verification code, the scammer can access your WhatsApp account.

2. Friend or loved one in need

• Scammers may pose as friends or loved ones and claim to be in need of immediate help.
• You receive a message that claims to be from a friend or loved one. It may come from an unknown number but it could also come from their account that’s been hacked.
• The person claims to be stuck in some dire situation and urgently needs your help. They may say they’ve been robbed or assaulted.
• Due to the sense of urgency, you are unlikely to try and verify their identity.

3. Fake employer scam

Scammers may pose as high-level executives. They will contact you through WhatsApp offering you an enticing job opportunity. One variation of this involves liking and subscribing to YouTube videos to earn easy money. You will even see your ‘earnings’ accumulate on a fake app. Scammers will then pressure you to invest money to ‘unlock’ your earnings. Once you send the money all communication stops.

4. Romance scam

On WhatsApp, someone may reach out to you randomly and pretend that they got the wrong number. They will try to build a romantic relationship with you. Once the scammer gains your trust, the request will come for money for a medical or financial emergency.

5. QR code scam

You may receive a QR code on WhatsApp from scammers. They will ask you to scan the code to receive a prize. If you follow the instructions, you will end up giving them information they can use to access your bank account or for identity theft.

6. Lottery and giveaway scam

You may get a message saying that you have won a lottery or giveaway. Usually, you will get a link with it that you need to click to claim the prize. When you do so you will usually be prompted to enter your home address or bank details.

Image Credit: Pixels

How can you Stay Safe on WhatsApp?

Knowing about all these scams may make you wonder ‘is WhatsApp safe to use?” To stay safe on WhatsApp you need to do the following:

• Set up two-factor authentication as this offers an additional layer of security when you log in. You will have to enter a one-time code sent to your phone or email address before you can log in.
• Avoid sharing personal information on the app. It’s a major red flag if anyone asks for personal information.
• Don’t take any requests for money at face value, even when it comes from a family member or close friend. You must verify the person’s identity before sending any money.
• Does the message sound like a family member or friend? Look at the language and use of tone. If you are in doubt, ask a question that only the person could answer.
• Be skeptical of any job offers and investment opportunities. These are most like to come from scammers who want to get money out of you.
• You may want to know how to track a scammer on WhatsApp. You can report the scam to WhatsApp. Tap the contact’s name and Report Contact. Then tap Report and Block. WhatsApp will take action against fraudulent accounts.

Conclusion

Is WhatsApp safe? The features that make the platform convenient and accessible also make it a target for scammers. You need to be aware of scams and exercise caution when receiving calls or messages from unknown numbers. Understanding the tactics of scammers can help you to identify threats and avoid them so you don’t become a victim.