WhatsApp users have been issued a warning as the text app continues to be targeted by fraudsters.
In the latest advice from the messaging app, users are being reminded to remain vigilant following the recent resurgence of a concerning six-digit text scam. Victims of the scam have seen hackers gain full access to private chats on the app.
And now WhatsApp are urging users to check their setting to make sure their profile is private in a bid to avoid the dangerous consequences of the fake messages from fraudsters. WhatsApp explained that making sure profiles are private is a simple way to keep your identity safe, with strangers unable to view or steal your profile picture in a bid to trick loved ones into thinking they are chatting to you, reports the Mirror.
It takes just seconds to double check or change your settings, so it is certainly worth your while if you are concerned about the online threats.
All you need to do is click on Settings > Account > Privacy > Profile Picture > then change to My contacts .
Another reason you may opt to change you privacy settings is to help avoid the dreaded ‘friend in need’ scam.
The scam sees fraudsters pretend to be a friend or family member asking for money to be transferred to help out due to their phone or wallet being stolen, with thousands of pounds stollen.
As well as changing profile privacy settings, there are various other ways you can increase your protection on the app.
Steps you can take to increase security on WhatsApp
STOP
Take five before you respond. Make sure your WhatsApp two-step verification is switched on to protect your account; that you're happy with your privacy settings, and your six-digit pin is secure.
THINK
Does this request make sense? Are they asking you to share a PIN code which they have had sent to you? Are they asking for money? Are they rushing you into taking action? Remember that scammers prey on people’s kindness, trust and willingness to help.
CALL
Verify that it really is your friend or family member by calling them directly, or asking them to share a voice note. Only when you’re 100% sure the request is from someone you know and trust, should you consider it. If it turns out to be untrue, report it to Action Fraud.
A WhatsApp spokesperson told the Mirror: "WhatsApp protects your personal messages with end-to-end encryption, but we can all play a role in keeping our accounts safe by remaining vigilant to the threat of scammers.
"If you receive a suspicious message (even if you think you know who it’s from), calling or requesting a voice note is the fastest and simplest way to check someone is who they say they are. If you get a message from someone who isn't in your contacts, we give you the option to block or report them straight away.”
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