A new text scam is circulating in parts of Europe, posing a threat to WhatsApp users. The scam involves receiving a message from a friend requesting a vote, leading to potential account lockout and financial risks for contacts. Bitdefender has identified this scheme, which utilizes emotional manipulation to trick users into clicking on links and divulging personal security codes.
The scam starts with a message urging users to vote for a friend’s daughter in a contest for a scholarship abroad. Clicking the link takes users to a fake website where they are prompted to vote. Upon submission, a request for the phone number and a verification code follows. However, there is no actual voting process; instead, the scam aims to compromise WhatsApp accounts.
By obtaining the phone number and security code, cybercriminals can hijack accounts, locking users out and using the compromised accounts to deceive others into providing money or personal information. Bitdefender warns that the scam is ongoing, with attackers utilizing numerous fraudulent domains and URLs to target thousands of users.
To safeguard against such scams, Bitdefender advises users to refrain from sharing verification codes, verify requests for money or favors through direct calls, and report suspicious messages within WhatsApp. In case of a hack, users should request a new verification code, contact WhatsApp support, inform their bank if money has been transferred, and notify contacts of the compromise.
WhatsApp emphasizes the importance of not sharing verification codes, sending push notifications when registration attempts are made with a user’s phone number. Users are urged to keep verification codes private to protect their accounts from unauthorized access. Stay vigilant, as the scam has primarily affected areas like Poland, Romania, and Germany but could target the UK next.