Phishing is the most common form of cybercrime. While it mostly happens via email, messaging apps have also become a growing target for phishing attacks. No matter what messenger you use, whether it’s WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger, there’s a possibility of falling victim to phishing if you’re not careful enough.
You may be surprised to know that 90% of phishing attacks on messaging apps take place on WhatsApp. Well, if you’re surprised, don’t be — it’s the most popular communication platform in the world, so it makes perfect sense that it’s exploited by scammers.
But how do you recognize phishing on WhatsApp? And what measures can you implement in order to stay safe?
Recognizing WhatsApp Phishing Messages
One day, you might receive a WhatsApp message from an unknown number, claiming to be a long-lost friend or offering a deal that sounds too good to pass up. These are classic signs of phishing attempts where scammers are trying to trick you into divulging personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Understanding the common traits of phishing attempts and seeing real-world examples of WhatsApp phishing scams can make a world of difference. Here are some specifics to help you become more vigilant and savvy in spotting these threats.
Common Traits of Phishing Attempts on WhatsApp
- Unsolicited Messages: You receive a message from an unknown number. You’ve never interacted with this number before, but they send you messages with links.
- Urgency or threats: Scammers know that the most effective way to make someone click on a link is to threaten or create a sense of urgency. “If you don’t verify your account, it will be suspended” and “Click a link now to win a $1000 price” are a few examples.
- Requests for personal information: Scammers may ask for your login credentials, credit card numbers, or your Social Security number. They also send verification links that lead to fake websites.
- Suspicious links or attachments: Obviously, this is the main giveaway of a phishing scam. The second you click on a link or download an attachment, you’ll be redirected to a malicious website or download malware to your device.
- Overly polite or formal language: Although these may indicate that a legitimate company is contacting you, in some cases, scammers leverage this method, too.
- Too-good-to-be-true offers: If someone is trying to sell you a luxury item for half the price or offers participation in a lottery with guaranteed results, you’re most likely dealing with phishing.
Ideal Practices for Handling Suspicious Messages on WhatsApp
Avoid Engaging with Unknown Contacts
When receiving messages from unfamiliar numbers, use a reverse phone search to find out who it is and look for indicators that can guide your response. Avoid responding to messages from unknown numbers that are not saved in your contacts, as engaging with scammers can put you at risk.
Verify the Sender’s Identity
If uncertain about an unknown contact, verify their identity before engaging further. Initiate a voice or video call to authenticate their identity. A video call is particularly effective in confirming if the sender is indeed the person they claim to be.
Cross-check the contact’s details through another known method, like calling a mutual friend. Always be cautious when interacting with unknown contacts, as they may pose a risk.
Report and Block Suspicious Contacts
WhatsApp offers features to report and block suspicious contacts, which are vital for maintaining your security. Use the reporting feature to alert WhatsApp about potential fraud. Reporting a contact will send the last five messages received from that sender to WhatsApp for review.
After reporting the sender, block them and delete the suspicious message immediately. These actions help keep the platform safe for everyone and protect you from future phishing attempts.
Protecting Your WhatsApp Account from Phishing Attacks
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) can significantly improve the security of your WhatsApp account. Enable 2FA by navigating to Account settings, selecting Two-step verification, and following the prompts to set a six-digit PIN.
This additional layer of security requires a verification code in addition to your password, which makes it harder for scammers to access your account.
Regularly Update Passwords and Security Settings
Regularly updating your passwords and adjusting security settings is another effective way to protect your WhatsApp account. Adjust your privacy settings to restrict who can send you messages to only known contacts, which adds another layer of security.
Use Third-Party Security Apps
Third-party security apps can provide additional protection against phishing attacks. Consider using highly-rated security apps like Norton Mobile Security and Bitdefender Mobile Security, which are effective in detecting phishing sites and malicious links. These apps offer features like real-time scanning and automatic updates to keep your device secure.
What to Do if You Fell Victim to a WhatsApp Phishing Scam
If you suspect that you’ve fallen victim to a phishing scam, act swiftly. Unfamiliar transaction alerts or account lockout notifications can indicate unauthorized access. Confirmation emails for password resets that you didn’t request may also signal that your account has been compromised.
Here’s what you should do in case you become a victim of phishing on WhatsApp.
Identify Signs of a Compromised Account
Recognizing signs of a compromised account is crucial. Symptoms can include unexpected messages being sent from your account, alterations in your profile information, or difficulty accessing your account.
If you notice these signs, act immediately to protect your account from further threats.
Recover Your Account
To recover your account, verify it using your phone number and the SMS code sent by WhatsApp to log out any unauthorized users.
If blocked from logging in due to two-step verification, wait seven days to regain access if you haven’t previously set it up.
Contact WhatsApp Support
Contact WhatsApp support for guidance on securing your WhatsApp accounts and reporting suspicious activity. While WhatsApp support can’t deactivate your account or trace unauthorized access, they can recommend swift recovery actions.
Let’s Sum Up
Recognizing and protecting yourself from WhatsApp phishing scams involves understanding common traits, handling suspicious messages appropriately, and implementing security measures like two-factor authentication.
Remember, vigilance and proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing scams.