WhatsApp has become a favorite tool for fraudsters – and their tricks are becoming increasingly difficult to discovers. Now experts warn of nine regular bluffs who can fool you into both money and private information.
The popular communication platform WhatsApp is used by over two billion people each month. Unfortunately, with such a huge user base, the app also becomes a magnet for fraudsters who want to access your money or information, NordvPN warns.
As cyber crime increases, the bluffs have also become more sophisticated. Everything from fake job offers to blackmail through dating apps occur – and WhatsApp is one of their favorite tools.
Here are nine common fraud that you can be exposed to on Whatsapp – and how you protect yourself against them, according to NordvPN:
Read more: Windows 10 stops working – then you are left unprotected
1. Fraudsmen who pretend to be a child
You get a message from someone who claims to be your child or a relative: “My mobile has broken, can you swish to this number?”. The bluff is based on stress and empathy – and many go on it directly, warns NordvPN.
2. False verification code
If you receive a text message with a six -digit code that you have not requested, someone may try to cut your account. Often it is followed by a message from a fraudster who claims that the code “happened” is sent to you – and asks you to pass it on.
Read more: Hackers can spy on you – here are the warning signals
3. Dating fraud
After contact on a dating site, the conversation is quickly moved to WhatsApp. When the relationship has been deepened, a request for money comes – sometimes you are also threatened with images or other personal information being disseminated, NordVPN reports.
5. False job offers
You are contacted with a job that sounds too good to be true. For more information, you need to fill out a form or download a file, which often leads to stolen tasks or infected device.
Read more: Warning: So you are tricked by the post-fraudsters
4. Crypto fraud
Fraudsters offer exclusive crypto tips or investment opportunities. You are forwarded to a credible, but unfortunately fake, investment page. Once you deposit money, they are gone for good, NordvPN alerts.
6. WhatsApp Gold bluff
A message claims that you can upgrade to “WhatsApp Gold”. But the app does not exist – clicking the link you risk downloading malicious code or virus.
Read more: Hackers can reach you – even when your mobile feels safe
7. Fake competitions and profits
You are said to have won a prize – but must first disclose your card details. These messages often come from accounts that have been hijacked.
8. Gift cards and discounts
According to the experts at NordVPN, fraudsters attract free gift cards if you click on a link or fill out a form. The purpose is to gather information to be able to carry out other types of fraud.
Read more: The Warning: Ordinary cable can ruin your mobile
9. Malicious links and attachments
A seemingly innocent message with a link or attachment may contain viruses or spyware. Although it seems to come from a friend, it may be a hijacked account, NordVPN informs.
Protect yourself like this:
Have you already been deceived? Block the sender, report the account and inform your contacts. Serious companies never ask you for money or sensitive information through WhatsApp, warns Nordvpn.
Read more: War games in the curriculum – now computer games become school subject