The instant messaging application "WhatsApp" has warned its two billion users about a fraudulent message, urging them to delete it immediately. According to the website (wabetainfo), which tracks WhatsApp news, scammers are misleading victims by pretending to be technical support from the app in an attempt to steal their personal information.
Scammers widely use instant messaging apps for stealing user information or money due to their extensive reach. The website shared a picture comparing the information of the real technical support account on WhatsApp with that of the fake support account.
To further mislead users, scammers utilize an account image that features the "WhatsApp" logo, which appears official and verified. However, there is an easy way to confirm whether an account is genuine or not; this is the green verification badge located below the account picture, rather than within it, which scammers cannot obtain.
If anyone receives a message from an account that has the verification badge, they should delete the message immediately. Scammers aim to obtain the 6-digit verification code to gain access to the account, or the user’s bank account numbers to prevent account suspension.
WhatsApp never requests any credit card information or other personal information, such as a password for services within the app. If someone asks for this information, it is a clear indication that they are trying to deceive you.