How to report, stop and avoid WhatsApp scams?

WhatsApp scams are fraudulent schemes that are often spread through the WhatsApp messaging platform. These scams can take many forms, such as phishing attempts to steal personal information, fake offers or deals, or attempts to spread malware. They may be spread through messages, phone calls, or links to fake websites. It is important to be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages or calls. And do verify the authenticity of any offers or deals before providing personal information or clicking on links.

How WhatsApp scams works?

WhatsApp scams can take many forms, but some common techniques used by scammers include:

Phishing

Scammers may send messages or make phone calls that appear to be from a trusted source, such as a bank or a friend. They attempt to trick you into providing personal information, such as your account number or password.

Fake offers or deals

Scammers may offer a deal that seems too good to be true, such as a free vacation or a discounted product. These offers may require you to provide personal information or make a payment in order to claim the offer.

Malware

Scammers may send a message or a link that appears to be from a trusted source. But when clicked, it will install malware on your device.

Impersonate a friend or family member

Scammers can impersonate a friend or family member, asking for money, personal information or other sensitive information.

Offer services or goods

Scammers may offer services such as hacking into social media accounts, email accounts or other online services, and ask for payment in advance.

Scammers may offer to sell non-existent goods or services online, such as cars, electronics, or even real estate.

Fake WhatsApp groups

Scammers may create fake WhatsApp groups that appear to be legitimate. But are actually used to spread false information or steal personal information.

Scammers may use WhatsApp to make unsolicited phone calls or send unwanted messages. Just want to trick you into providing personal information or paying for a service.

What kind of whatsapp scams you may get?

There are several recent examples of WhatsApp scams that have been reported. Some of these include:

Phishing scams: Scammers have been sending messages on WhatsApp that appear to be from a trusted source, such as a bank or a government agency. In an attempt to trick users into providing personal information, such as their account number or password.
Lottery scams: Scammers have been sending messages on WhatsApp that claim the recipient has won a lottery or sweepstakes and needs to provide personal information or make a payment in order to claim their prize.
Investment scams: Scammers have been sending messages on WhatsApp offering investment opportunities that promise high returns but are actually fraudulent schemes.
Malware scams: Scammers have been sending messages on WhatsApp that contain links to fake websites or malware-infected files. That can steal personal information or damage your device.
Job scams: Scammers have been sending messages on WhatsApp offering fake job opportunities that require payment or personal information in exchange for a job.
Scammers impersonating online sellers, asking for payment in advance, and then disappearing.
Scammers creating fake WhatsApp groups, pretending to be a legitimate business or organization. And then tricking members into providing personal information or money.

It’s important to note that these types of scams can evolve and change over time, so it’s always wise to be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages or calls, and to verify the authenticity of any offers or deals before providing personal information or clicking on links.

Can you report whatsapp scams?

Yes, it is possible to report WhatsApp scams. If you believe you have been the victim of a scam or have received a suspicious message or call on WhatsApp, you can report it to WhatsApp by following these steps:

Open the chat or call that you believe is a scam.
Tap on the contact’s name or phone number at the top of the screen.
Select “Report Contact” or “Report Spam”
Select the reason for reporting the contact or message.

Additionally, you can also report the scam to the appropriate authorities, such as your local police or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US. If you have been scammed out of money, you should also contact your bank or credit card company and report the fraud. By reporting WhatsApp scams, you can help to protect yourself and others from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. And assist WhatsApp and other authorities to take actions against scammers and mitigate the harm caused.

How to stop & avoid whatsapp scams?

To stop or avoid WhatsApp scams, it’s important to be aware of the common tactics used by scammers and to take precautions to protect yourself. Here are some tips on how to stop or avoid WhatsApp scams:

Be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls, especially those that ask for personal information or money.
Verify the authenticity of any offers or deals before providing personal information or making a payment.
Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
Keep your device and WhatsApp up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Be suspicious of messages or calls that use urgent or threatening language.
Be careful of sharing your personal information with others even if you know them. And be suspicious if they are asking for something you might not want to share.
Be aware of the signs of a scam, such as unsolicited messages or calls, requests for personal information or payments, and offers that seem too good to be true.
Report any suspicious messages or calls to WhatsApp, and the appropriate authorities, such as your local police or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US.
Don’t trust phone numbers, email addresses or other contact information that you don’t know, even if they seem familiar.
Educate yourself and others about WhatsApp scams and how to protect yourself.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from WhatsApp scams and keep your personal information and money safe.