WhatsApp Scam: How To Recognise, Steps To Prevent

If you are an active WhatsApp user, this article is for you. Lately, scammers have been using WhatsApp to con people across the country. Many WhatsApp users have reported receiving unwanted calls and messages, especially from international numbers.

Recently, a software engineer fell for the scam and lost about ₹42 Lakhs. According to reports, he got a message that offered him an additional source of income. The job involved liking videos on platforms like YouTube.

The engineer was further lured to invest for quick returns. He transferred an amount of ₹42 Lakhs and was informed that he earned 69 Lakhs plus profit. However, he wasn't allowed to withdraw it. He found it fishy and reported it to the police. This is just another scam story. WhatsApp scams are on a rise and we all must stay cautious to keep ourselves safe.

How To Identify WhatsApp Scam?

Getting Messages/Calls From Unrecognised Numbers

Remember that WhatsApp allows one to send messages, and make calls to any WhatsApp user. It is easy for scammers to get your WhatsApp contact. If you frequently get calls, messages from unknown numbers, especially international numbers, it is likely to be a scam.

Message With A Suspicious Link

Some scammers might trick you to click on a link with which they can access your details like login credentials, and bank account details. You might get a message stating your WhatsApp is expiring or you have bagged vouchers worth lakhs. They are all traps.

Receiving Frequently Forwarded Messages

WhatsApp lets you forward a message many times. However, messages sent by a scammer might read 'forwarded many times'. If that's the case, it is likely to be a scam.

Getting Messages With Grammatical Errors

You might receive a message from a big company or brand on your WhatsApp offering you an irresistible job or deal but if it has spelling errors, it is likely to be a scam.

Messages Asking You for Personal Details

Scammers send links asking you for your personal information, and banking details or claiming that you will have to pay to further use WhatsApp.

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How To Prevent Scam On WhatsApp?

• Keep your WhatsApp status, and profile picture limited to your contacts only.
• Report the number immediately. Click on the contact profile, click on the three buttons in the right corner and you get an option to report/block the contact. In your personal groups, share the contact details of the scammer to keep them alert.
• Restrict who can add you to groups. Go to your WhatsApp account, privacy, and groups. Choose an option based on your preference.

• Activate WhatsApp 2-step verification on your device. If someone tries to log in to your account from another device, you will get a verification code.
• If a message claims to be your friend asking for money, communicate with your friend through another source to confirm it is theirs.

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• Avoid taking calls from unrecognised numbers and block them immediately.
• Don't click on any links sent to you on WhatsApp until it is from a verified source or a known person.