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When you receive an unknown WhatsApp number message, it’s easy to be tricked into clicking on any links they send you.
Scammers have taken advantage of this fact and use random WhatsApp numbers with no profile picture as a way to trick users into sending them money via online banking systems.
The best way to protect yourself from this scam is to never click on the links that people send you via WhatsApp.
Report any suspicious messages to your bank immediately, and change your phone number if you think someone has been using it maliciously.
What happens when we click links on unknown phone numbers?
When we get a message from an unknown number, it's natural to be curious about who they are and why they've contacted us. However, if the number has a link in the message, it's important not to click it.
This is because clicking on a link sent by someone you don't know could open your device up to malware that can steal personal information.
If someone sends you a message with a link attached, delete the contact and any messages they may have sent before contacting your phone company or your wireless service provider for assistance.
How does this scam works?
You'll receive a text or whatsapp message from an unknown number with a link to some sort of content that sounds interesting.
You're just about to tap the link and see what it is, when all of a sudden your phone starts acting really weird. It might freeze up and restart, or start showing some strange messages like your battery is critically low or your SIM card has been deactivated.
This is because cybercriminals are sending out these messages that contain malware in order to steal information from people's phones.
The best thing you can do is avoid clicking any links in chats or texts from unknown phone numbers. Even if it looks like it could be coming from someone you know, double-check with them before clicking any links.
Is this scam new?
Phishing scams have been around for a while, but the introduction of social media and apps like WhatsApp has changed the game.
Social media provides a way for people to connect with others easily, but it also provides an easy way for scammers to reach out to potential victims.
They can even create fake profiles that look legitimate in order to get your personal information. With the rise in popularity of apps like WhatsApp, scammers can send messages that seem harmless and harmless at first but contain links that may lead to malware-ridden websites or phishing sites.
Am I at risk of getting scammed by unknown phone number?
It's always best to be safe than sorry, so if someone unknown contacts you, there are a few things to consider.
1. You're less likely to get scammed by an unknown number because they don't have your personal information yet. But it doesn't mean they can't find out who you are and try to scam you in the future.
2. There is no way of knowing who the person is that sent the message or why they messaged you in the first place unless they decide to show themselves which can be scary for most people.
How do I protect myself from this scam?
The simplest way to prevent this from happening is to avoid clicking any link sent by an unknown number or contact. Simply delete the message and do not engage with the sender in any way. If you have already clicked a link, there are some steps that can be taken.
First, change your password immediately and then go through your device history and delete all messages associated with the scammer.
Then use your antivirus software to scan your phone for malware that may have been installed without your knowledge.
Finally, make sure that two-factor authentication is enabled on all of your accounts so that it becomes harder for cybercriminals to compromise them in the future.
Conclusion
It is important to always be vigilant, especially when it comes to your personal information.
If something seems too good to be true, it usually is. If someone messages you out of the blue, don't just give away your information.
Verify who they are and what they're asking for before giving anything away. You'll thank yourself later!