Your WhatsApp Groups Aren't Safe How Scammers Are Targeting You

WhatsApp users are being cautioned about a rising scam that exploits the platform’s group messaging feature. Cybercriminals are deceiving victims into sharing personal data through these group chats, according to recent warnings from online scam experts.

Action Fraud, the British national cybercrime center, has reported over 630 cases this year where fraudsters infiltrate WhatsApp group chats by impersonating legitimate members. These scammers trick users into divulging sensitive information, posing a significant threat to the platform's extensive user base of more than two billion monthly active users.

The scam typically begins when a member receives an audio call from a fraudster who pretends to be another group member. The fraudster claims they are sending a one-time passcode needed to join an upcoming video call for the group. However, this passcode is actually a registration code that the scammers use to access the victim's WhatsApp account on a new device.

Once the fraudster gains control of the account, they enable two-step verification, making it nearly impossible for the original owner to regain access. With control of the account, the scammers then contact the victim’s friends and family, requesting urgent financial assistance under the guise of an emergency.

Detective Superintendent Gary Miles, Head of the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau at the City of London Police, emphasized the need for vigilance. “With over 630 reports already this year, we urge users, especially those in large group chats, to monitor who joins their chats and be cautious of unexpected messages,” he said.

In response to these reports, a WhatsApp spokesperson highlighted the platform's end-to-end encryption, which protects personal messages. However, they stressed the importance of individual vigilance. Users are advised to enable two-step verification for added security and to never share their six-digit PIN code. If a suspicious message is received, verifying the sender through a call or voice note is recommended to confirm their identity.

As of July 2023, WhatsApp boasts around 2.78 billion active users worldwide. The messaging app, which surpassed two billion users in 2020, is projected to reach 3.14 billion by 2025.