A new text scam is targeting WhatsApp users in parts of Europe, posing a serious threat to account security and financial well-being. Bitdefender has uncovered this scheme that preys on emotions to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links and divulging personal security information.
The scam starts with a deceptive message urging users to vote for a supposed contest participant named Adeline, claiming to be the daughter of a close acquaintance. Despite the innocent appearance of the request, clicking on the link leads to a fake website soliciting votes and personal details. Once users enter their phone number and verification code, cybercriminals gain access to their WhatsApp accounts, potentially locking them out.
Subsequently, the scammers exploit compromised accounts to send fraudulent messages to the users’ contacts, attempting to deceive them into providing money or sensitive information. Bitdefender has observed a significant increase in such attacks, with over 177 fraudulent domains and 554 unique URLs used to target thousands of users in recent months.
To combat this threat, Bitdefender advises users to be cautious and follow key guidelines:
– Avoid sharing WhatsApp verification codes with anyone, including friends and family.
– Verify requests for money or assistance through direct phone calls.
– Report suspicious messages within WhatsApp promptly.
In case of a hack, users are advised to regain control by requesting a new verification code, contacting WhatsApp support, informing their bank about any unauthorized transfers, and notifying their contacts about the breach. WhatsApp also emphasizes the importance of not sharing verification codes with others to safeguard account security.
As the scam continues to proliferate, vigilance is crucial, especially for users in regions like Poland, Romania, and Germany where most attacks have occurred. Staying informed and adhering to security best practices can help mitigate the risks associated with such fraudulent activities on WhatsApp.