Experts are raising alarms about a new scam targeting WhatsApp group chat members, potentially putting friends and family at risk of financial loss.
Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, has reported a surge in complaints from victims who fell prey to this scheme.
The scam operates by exploiting the trust within group chats. Scammers call unsuspecting victims pretending to be group chat members, often using fake profile pictures and display names to appear legitimate.
During the call, the fraudster tricks the victim into believing they must share a one-time passcode (OTP) to join an upcoming group call. In reality, the scammer uses this code to gain access to the victim’s WhatsApp account on a new device.
Once the scammer has control, they enable two-step verification, effectively locking the victim out of their account. This paves the way for the scammer to impersonate the victim and reach out to contacts in their list, often soliciting money under pretences of urgency or need.
Detective Superintendent Gary Miles, who heads the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau at the City of London Police, emphasized the importance of vigilance on messaging platforms like WhatsApp. He highlighted that fraudsters exploit these platforms despite encryption protections, making anyone susceptible to fraud attempts.
With over 630 reported incidents this year alone, users are urged to be cautious, especially in large WhatsApp group chats. Miles advised users to keep their account details private and immediately report suspicious activity.
To enhance security, experts recommend enabling two-step verification on WhatsApp accounts. This extra layer of protection can thwart unauthorized access attempts.
A spokesperson from WhatsApp, owned by Meta, underscored the importance of safeguarding account PINs and verification codes. They urged users never to share such sensitive information, even with acquaintances.
In case of receiving suspicious messages, users are advised to verify identities through voice calls or voice notes, especially when dealing with sensitive information or financial requests.
The scam disproportionately impacts various group chat types, with Islamic and Christian religious groups, along with work-related chats, being among the most targeted, according to Action Fraud data.
Victims of such scams or cybercrimes are encouraged to report incidents promptly. They can contact Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or the helpline at 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, victims can report to Police Scotland by dialling 101.
The rising instances of such scams highlight the evolving landscape of cyber threats, necessitating continuous awareness and proactive measures from internet users. Cybercrime experts stress the need for ongoing education and caution among individuals using digital platforms.
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