WhatsApp: Millions warned of scam that could steal access to phone, here’s how you can stay safe

Scammers constantly come up with new ideas that compromise online users’ safety and steal their identity, and it leads to people getting their digital life disrupted and their wallets often affected.

Action Fraud is a warning about a new such scam that targets WhatsApp users. Here is how to stay safe.

Criminals may ask for a code to log in to your account

Criminals are targeting WhatsApp users by posing as a friend and asking for a security code.

The scam begins when a criminal gets access to another WhatsApp account which have you listed as a contact.

They will pretend to be a friend from your contact list or a member of a WhatsApp group you’re in and will then send you seemingly normal messages to try and start a conversation with you.

However, around the same time, you will receive a text message from WhatsApp with a six-digit code. This is because the criminal has been trying to log in to WhatsApp using your mobile number.

They will claim that they sent you their code by accident and ask you to help them by sending it to them. Once the criminal has this code, they can log in to your WhatsApp account and lock you out.

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Action Fraud has received over 60 reports relating to a scam that steals access to a user's account.

Here is how to stay safe

To prevent fraud, set up two-step verification to give an extra layer of protection to your account. You can go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable on your WhatsApp app.

If a family member or friend makes an unusual request on WhatsApp, always call the person to confirm their identity.

Action Fraud recommends never sharing your account’s activation code - the 6 digits you receive via SMS - with anyone.

It is strongly advised to report spam messages within WhatsApp to make sure they don't spread and don’t harm more people. Press and hold on to the message bubble, select ‘Report’ and then follow the instructions.

If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, report it to Action Fraud or 0300 123 2040.

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Sources used:

- Action Fraud: 'Warning issued to WhatsApp users over account takeover scam'