WhatsApp accounts in danger if one textual content message isn’t deleted instantly
Cybersecurity boffins Bitdefender have warned the UK could be next in line to be hit by the scam, which has already devastated users in Central and Eastern Europe
WhatsApp accounts are at risk if one text message is not deleted immediately, experts warn. The folks at the cybersecurity firm Bitdefender said be careful if you receive a message from a friend asking you to vote.
The innocent-seeming message appears to be a new text scam sweeping across part of Europe and falling victim to it could see you locked out of your WhatsApp account and your contacts at risk of losing money.
Bitdefender spotted the scam and say cyber criminals are using an emotional tactic to lure people into clicking on links and handing over personal security codes.
The anti-virus experts say the message goes something like this: “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 message comes with a link that takes you to a fake website where you’ll be asked to vote. A text then appears asking for your phone number and a code that’s sent to the device.
Bitdefender said there is no vote and the scam is aimed at getting access to WhatsApp accounts. Once a cyber crim accesses your account, they can lock you out and send fake messages to your contacts, tricking them to hand over money or personal details.
The scam is ongoing with attackers now deploying 177 fraudulent domains and 554 unique URLs, targeting thousands of users over the past two months alone.
Bitdefender said: “This “Vote for My Child” scam hijacks accounts by tricking users into sharing their verification codes, turning friends and family into unknowing amplifiers of the fraud.”
The majority of attacks have taken place in Poland, Romania and Germany, but the UK could be next. To stay safe, Bitdefender has shared some tips on how to avoid being scammed.
These include not sharing codes and reporting strange messages. The cybersecurity gurus say never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone – not even family or friends.
Always verify request for money or favour through a direct phone call and report any suspicious messages within the WhatsApp app by clicking ‘more’ and ‘report’.
If you’re hacked, try regaining control by requesting a new verification code or contact WhatsApp support at [email protected].
Notify your bank if money has been transferred and let your contacts know you’ve been hacked.
In a message on its help page, the chat app said: “To protect your account, WhatsApp will send you a push notification when someone tries to register a WhatsApp account with your phone number. To keep your account safe, don’t share your verification code with others.
“When you receive this notification, it means that someone has entered your phone number and requested the registration code. You should never share your WhatsApp verification code with others.”
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