Everyone with a WhatsApp account would be wise to follow some urgent new advice that has just been issued. It seems that this hugely popular platform continues to be firmly in sights of cyber crooks and not staying alert could be costly. The UK security team at Action Fraud says it continues to see a rise in people being targeted via WhatsApp, with account takeovers one of the biggest threats.
Not heard of accout takeovers before? This is where a hacker manages to grab log in details and security codes which then lets them log in and block the real users from accessing their chats. Once an account is in the hands of crooks, they can send messages to contacts in bid to steal money.
“Protect your WhatsApp account against hackers,” Action Fraud said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“We continue to see a rise in the number of reports relating to WhatsApp account takeovers.”
One of the most concerning scams that can arise from these attacks is the infamous ‘Hi mum’ trick.
This is where a message is sent to family member that suggest there’s a problem and money is needed. It might sound far-fetched but it’s already cost UK users hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Action Fraud has now issued three important rules to follow including setting up two-step verification and being careful when a code arrives on your phone.
Here are three ways to stay safe.
• Set up two-step verification to give an extra layer of protection to your account. Tap Settings > Account >Two-step verification > Enable.
• Never share your account’s activation code (that 6 digit code you receive via SMS).
• STOP. THINK. CALL. If a family member or friend makes an unusual request on WhatsApp, always call the person to confirm their identify.
Along with Action Fraud, UK Police have also issued a similar warning about account takeovers.
“We’re issuing a warning about a rising WhatsApp scam,” said West Midlands Police.
“Criminals are trying to gain unauthorised access to victims’ WhatsApp accounts, leading to impersonation and further fraudulent activity.
“WhatsApp takeover scams involve fraudsters tricking people into sharing their six-digit verification code. Once they have this code, they can log into the account, locking out the real owner, and use the compromised account to deceive others for personal gain.”
WhatsApp is always going to a popular choice for online thieves due the sheer number of people that use it.
It has over three billion users worldwide, which makes the chances of an attack being successful far more likely.
Stay alert, and your account will be safe.