If you ever receive an urgent money request from a known WhatsApp contact, be cautious. Before sending funds, take a moment to directly reach out and confirm the situation.
Recent incidents in the city highlight the importance of this caution. Notably, a prominent politician’s personal assistant fell victim to WhatsApp hacking. Malicious individuals hacked the assistant’s account and sent distressing messages seeking financial aid to all contacts. This scenario echoes past instances where similar scams were conducted via Facebook impersonation.
Law enforcement has been informed and is investigating the matter. The victim advises recipients not to entertain such messages, as they are not genuine requests for financial assistance.
The police further explained that falling for WhatsApp phishing often occurs through suspicious voice calls or by clicking dubious links sent through email, SMS, or WhatsApp. Once the call is answered or the link clicked, the WhatsApp account can be temporarily compromised. Cyber experts explain that hackers can then use the compromised account to send messages requesting money.
To avoid such threats, experts advise refraining from charging your phone in public areas using publicly available chargers or connecting to public WiFi networks. Additionally, exercise caution when dealing with suspicious links or unfamiliar voice calls on WhatsApp.
Here is a piece of information shared by Odisha government which highlights do’s and don’ts to be followed in case of WhatsApp phishing. It was a old share but it could be useful to remain protected from become victim of financial fraud.
The Department has issued an advisory on #WhatsApp phishing. Hackers target victims via WhatsApp voice call or suspicious link on social media, SMS, WhatsApp. By adopting proper precautionary measures, hackers can be kept at bay without uninstalling the app. pic.twitter.com/SqLeE9Ps2L
— E&IT Department Odisha (@EIT_Odisha) November 9, 2021
