Experts are afraid that users of the popular social media application WhatsApp will become easy victims of ongoing verification scam which targets sensitive data.
Since its launch in 2009, WhatsApp has grown to become one of the most used social media platforms in the World. After being acquired by Facebook in 2014, its numbers increased, and now, over two billion users make use of WhatsApp every month.
Hackers have introduced a new verification scam which put billions of WhatsApp users at risk. It is a clever hack, which is why experts fear that a lot of users will fall for it.
Usually, the hackers pose as friends and try to convince you to send them your login code. Other times, they pose as the WhatsApp Technical Team using the WhatsApp logo so they look legit enough. These hackers send messages to their targets, telling them that they need to verify their WhatsApp accounts.
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The WhatsApp verification scam not only puts users at risk of losing their details, but they can also lose their entire if they give out their login code. With the login code, the hackers will be able to send and read messages with the victims’ accounts.
Considering how frequently WhatsApp requires updating, most users will be unsuspicious of these messages. Users have been advised against falling victim to such scams as the WhatsApp Technical Team does not message users on the WhatsApp platform.
This was made known via a Whatsapp blog, WABetaInfo. They dismissed the messages as fake, and if WhatsApp were to message users, there would be a green verified indicator for authenticity. Furthermore, the blog made it clear that WhatsApp will never ask for user login codes or personal data.
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How WhatsApp users can protect themselves against the verification scam
Users should note that the WhatsApp login code is private and shouldn’t be shared with any third party, no matter who requests for it. Furthermore, they can make use of the 2-factor authentication option featured in WhatsApp settings.
So, if they do give out their login code, the hackers would still need to bypass a second security protocol before getting access to their accounts.
Hackers Target WhatsApp with Verification Scam: Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a WhatsApp scam asking for verification code?
Yes, there is a circulating scam where attackers attempt to trick you into giving them your WhatsApp verification code.
Can my WhatsApp verification code be hacked?
Technically, the code itself cannot be hacked. However, if you reveal it to someone else, they can use it to verify their own device on your WhatsApp account, potentially locking you out.
Can a scammer hack my WhatsApp if I don’t give them the code?
No, simply not giving them the code prevents them from taking over your account.
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Why might WhatsApp ask for a verification code?
WhatsApp typically only asks for a verification code when you:
- Register a new device with your WhatsApp account.
- Reinstall WhatsApp on your phone.
- Request your account information report.
What can a scammer do with my verification code?
If you share your verification code, a scammer can use it to verify their device and gain access to your WhatsApp account. This allows them to:
- Impersonate you and chat with your contacts.
- See your private messages and media.
- Make calls or send messages in your name.
How can I stay safe from this scam?
- Never share your verification code with anyone, not even WhatsApp itself (WhatsApp will never ask for your code via call or message).
- Be wary of suspicious messages, even if they appear to be from a friend or family member. If someone asks for your code, contact them directly through a trusted channel to confirm its legitimacy.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your WhatsApp account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN in addition to the verification code when registering a new device.
By understanding this scam and following these precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim and keep your WhatsApp account secure.
Note: This was initially published in July 2020, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
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About the Author:
John Raymond is a cybersecurity content writer, with over 5 years of experience in the technology industry. He is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the field of cybersecurity, and is an avid researcher and writer. He has written numerous articles on topics of cybersecurity, privacy, and digital security, and is committed to providing valuable and helpful information to the public.
Christian Schmitz is a professional journalist and editor at SecureBlitz.com. He has a keen eye for the ever-changing cybersecurity industry and is passionate about spreading awareness of the industry's latest trends. Before joining SecureBlitz, Christian worked as a journalist for a local community newspaper in Nuremberg. Through his years of experience, Christian has developed a sharp eye for detail, an acute understanding of the cybersecurity industry, and an unwavering commitment to delivering accurate and up-to-date information.
