WhatsApp users are being warned of a new scam which sees criminals posing as family and friends to request a security code. Once they have access to the security code, they aim to steal access to your WhatsApp account. Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for cybercrime and fraud, has received reports relating to the scam.
Criminals gain access to an account that lists you as a contact, before posing as that account and starting a seemingly normal conversation. 🤔 Not sure if a message you have received is real or fake? ✅Contact the organisation directly using contact info on their official website. ❌Do NOT use the number or link in the message.
#ReportThePhish pic.twitter.com/yo7B6KWr6w — Action Fraud (@actionfrauduk) August 1, 2024 The user will then receive a text message from WhatsApp with a six-digit code around the same time as the conversation begins.
The criminal has been trying to log in to WhatsApp using the user's mobile number to receive this code. The scammer will ask you to share the code with them, claiming it was sent by mistake. Once the criminal has the code, they can log in to your WhatsApp account and lock you out.
The criminal will then use the same tactic with your contacts to steal more accounts and perpetrate fraud. Action Fraud recommends setting up two-step verification to give an extra layer of protection to their account. To set up two-step verification, you should go into your app and tap Settings > Account > Two-step verific.