WhatsApp is a simple-to-use messaging app that’s free for users. But if you have it downloaded on your phone, it’s important you’re aware of this scam that is doing the rounds at the minute.
TikToker @painfullyhonestnews shared that you need to “watch out for this WhatsApp scam,” because it’s “fooling so many people in the UK”.
He said that “some people are losing their life savings” to the scam, so he wanted to make people aware so they’re forearmed and forewarned.
He continued: “So, what is the scam? Well, just picture this, you’re sitting on the sofa, minding your own business, and you get a message, a random message, saying ‘Mum, I need some help’.
“You think, blimey, what’s going on? What’s wrong with Zoe, or one of your children, and you think, blimey, I hope they’re okay.
“And they need money. They need money because something’s happened to them and they need to pay for a taxi or whatever it is.”
However, if you just “send the money thinking you’re helping your son or daughter” it could lead to some serious problems.
The TikToker explained that they can “hack your WhatsApp” and if you’ve “done any voice messages” he claimed that they can “gain access to that” to copy your voice.
There are many ways they can “make it very believable for a lot of people” – and this is why so many are falling foul of the scam.
So, how can you prevent this from happening to you? He said the best way is to “always, always, always check with your offspring.”
So, if your daughter messages, “do a video call” to verify that it’s actually her asking for money and not a scammer.
Which? addressed the WhatsApp scams on its own website, also urging people to be cautious when sending out money.
It reads: “Whether it’s the ‘Hi Mum and Dad’ scam, fake job offers or even an account takeover scam, WhatsApp is used by opportunistic scammers.
“WhatsApp allows users to message friends and family all over the world for free. It also enables people to call contacts and use video, audio and images in messages.
“These features are sometimes exploited by fraudsters who impersonate brands, friends and family members in convincing scam messages in an attempt to con you out of your money.
“If you haven’t done so already, add an extra layer of security to your WhatsApp by setting up two-step verification (2SV). You can do this by:
Opening WhatsApp settings. Tapping ‘account’ > ‘two-step verification’ > turning on or setting up ‘PIN.’
Then choose and enter a six-digit PIN and confirm it. You can provide an email address to reset two-step verification or choose to skip this.
Tap ‘next’ > confirm the email address > tap ‘save’ or ‘done.’”