WhatsApp users warned: Rise in scam messages offering fake work

WhatsApp users are exposed to various attacks, including unexpected messages from foreign numbers. Our editorial team received an example of contact through the messenger from an unknown sender who claims the possibility of taking on exceptionally well-paid work. It is better to avoid such offers.

Our editorial team received a fresh example of a message sent via WhatsApp in which the sender suggests taking on well-paid work by clicking the attached link. It is better not to respond to such offers. Delete the messages and report the sender as spam if it is an intrusive contact we did not expect. Similar to classic phishing, such messages are usually the beginning of some scam, starting at least with the theft of personal data.

Creating financially attractive offers is one of the typical methods of scammers. Similarly, fake investment proposals (mainly popular on social media) or ticket sales offers for events, which, in practice, never reach the interested parties, are prepared. The possibility of easy money and savings are compelling topics that encourage risky decisions by the irresponsible recipients of such proposals. This case is no different.

WhatsApp users must also be alert to other possible scam methods.

An example is the "SMS to mum" scam, which involves sending messages in which the scammers impersonate a close person, usually a child. They inform about a phone number change and ask for financial help due to a phone malfunction. The scammers ask for a money transfer or provide a bank account number to which the victim is supposed to transfer the money.