WhatsApp is one of the most widely used instant messaging apps in the world.

This type of app has completely transformed how we communicate. What used to be a phone call or text message is now a free instant message, where you can include images, videos, documents, contacts, voice notes and even your location.

This application's success and its wild popularity make it an ideal tool for cybercriminals to contact potential victims.

In recent months, many users of this platform have received messages from an unknown number in a personal and familiar tone. The senders of these messages, without mentioning who they are or going into details, may claim to be someone who has a fond memory of you or who wants to see you. The aim is to subsequently probe you for information about the supposed individual in question.

 

Another social engineering technique

This is nothing more than a social engineering technique used by cybercriminals, whose goal is to manipulate and deceive you to obtain information about you and people around you in order to scam you.

How it works?

Once they get the data on a person you know (which could be the one who is contacting you), the cybercriminal will continue with their game and make you believe that this person has financial problems and needs money to get out of an urgent situation.

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It is common for cybercriminals to pose as your child in this type of scam and tell you that their mobile is broken and they need money urgently to buy a new one.

Another recurring example is when a cybercriminal impersonates a family member who is stuck, together with their suitcases, at the airport and needs money to leave.

The potential pretexts are endless:

It is important to keep in mind that the cybercriminal's intention will be to earn your trust, manipulate and deceive you to get you to send them money, or even your personal or banking details.

 

How can you avoid being a victim of this scam?

First, applying common sense and being sceptical will be your best weapons.

  • Be wary any time you receive an instant message from a stranger.
  • First of all, ask the person their name.
  • Ask additional questions to help you verify that the person who is contacting you is who they really claim to be (for example, by asking questions that you know only you and this person know the answers to). Setting up a video call can also be useful to verify their identity.
  • Be alert for suspicious expressions and misspellings.
  • If someone asks you for money, don't send it to them without first confirming that person's identity. The best way to do so is by using the normal addresses and methods you have to contact that person.

And, finally, never give out your banking or personal details through emails, messages, calls or any other channel.