WhatsApp warning for all UK customers over ‘unusual’ messages – what to do should you obtain one

The financial team at Revolut has warned that Brits were scammed more on WhatsApp in 2024 than consumers in any other European country, with messages to watch out for

UK WhatsApp users have been been warned to keep your eyes peeled for dodgy new messages popping up on your phones. The finance boffins at Revolut have dropped a bombshell report revealing that Brits got conned on WhatsApp more than any other European folk in 2024.

It’s a grim stat that gets even grimmer when you clock the wads of cash nicked by cyber crooks.

Revolut’s number crunchers reckon that each WhatsApp scam is rinsing folks an average of £2,437 – that’s a hefty jump from the £478 Facebook victims are losing.

The reason for the bigger hit on WhatsApp?

Well, it seems we’re all a bit too trusting on there, thinking the messages are from our mates. That’s why the scammers are swarming to WhatsApp, ditching other platforms, with Revolut’s data showing scams on the app have shot up by a whopping 33%, reports the Express.

Keep your guard up against job and investment cons – they’re not just rife but also the ones most likely to leave your wallet seriously bruised.

“The illusion of security on encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp is being ruthlessly exploited by criminals,” warns Woody Malouf, the top dog of Financial Crime at Revolut.

“We’re seeing consumers increasingly letting their guards down to messages received on WhatsApp more than any other platform, perhaps due to the belief that if someone has their number, they have a legitimate reason for getting in contact. The significant financial losses, particularly from job and investment scams, demonstrate the devastating impact these frauds are having on individuals.”

Revolut is now calling for social media companies to commit to sharing reimbursement for victims of scams originating on their platforms.

WhatsApp insists that user safety is paramount, and it offers plenty of advice to help prevent people from falling victim to scams.

“Creating a safe space for our users to communicate with each other is our priority,” stated WhatsApp in a security post.

“We work diligently to reduce any spam or unwanted messages that might be sent on WhatsApp. However, just like regular SMS or phone calls, it’s possible for other WhatsApp users who have your phone number to contact you. They may or may not be saved in your contacts.”

WhatsApp has shared some tips on how to spot scams and what dangerous messages usually look like.

“There are clues that might indicate you’ve received a suspicious message, or that the sender can’t be trusted” WhatsApp added.

• Typos or grammatical mistakes.

• Asking you to tap on a link, activate a new feature through a link, or download an app.

• Requesting you to disclose personal details such as credit card or bank account numbers, date of birth, or passwords.

• Urging you to forward a message.

• Demanding money or asserting that payment is required to utilise WhatsApp.

• The fraudster impersonates someone familiar to you.

• The message revolves around lottery, betting, employment, investment, or a loan.

• The individual initiates a conversation with you to build trust prior to asking for personal data.