A worrying phenomenon known as Whatsapping has WhatsApp users on alert, after scammers are using the popular instant messaging application to carry out fraudulent tactics, affecting millions of users around the world.
This type of scam, which takes advantage of users’ trust, has experienced a significant increase, according to a study by the consulting firm Dinamic.
In the last five months, WhatsApp frauds were recorded that impacted 51.3 million users.
This phenomenon has become particularly prevalent among users aged 46 to 55, closely followed by those in the 36 to 45 range.
The Whatsapping tactic is not limited to just requesting money; It has also become a vector for identity theft.
According to Dinamic, between January and October 2023, cases of identity theft through this modality increased alarmingly by 218%.
The Whatsapping modality is not exclusive to Latin America, since in Europe, the Bank of Spain issued a warning about this scam method last October, pointing out the need for users to be alert and take measures to protect themselves.
How to avoid falling into the trap?
- Identity verification: Before responding to messages, verify the identity of the sender, especially if they request sensitive information.
- Distrust of unknown numbers: avoid responding to messages from numbers that you do not have saved in your phonebook to prevent possible scams.
- Be cautious with unknown links: Do not open links sent by unknown numbers, as they may lead to malicious sites.
- Protection of personal data: Never share personal or financial information through WhatsApp to avoid malicious use of your data.
- Secure payments and transfers: Verify identity before making payments or transfers and avoid acting hastily.
- Two-Step Verification: Turn on two-step verification on your WhatsApp account to add an extra layer of security.
- Account Recovery: In case of account hijacking, do not pay ransoms. Use legitimate methods provided by the platform to recover your account.
- Stay alert and follow these precautions to enjoy WhatsApp safely, protecting yourself from the risk posed by Whatsapping.
See also: WhatsApp scam alert: the dangerous 6-digit trap that you should avoid
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Source: vtt.edu.vn