The instant messaging application revealed a series of recommendations for its users. The practices of phishing They are increasingly recurrent.
Currently the virtual scams They are very common. In this sense, WhatsApp is no stranger to these scams and all users should be on alert.
Under this framework, the messaging service warned about a new type of deception: scam emails. Given this, they assured that if the user receives an email that they did not request to restore their account data, you should avoid clicking on any link that can be presented.
From WhatsApp they warned of the possibility that “someone is trying to access your phone number” in the application, in the event that said email arrives without any explanation.
Likewise, they detailed an example of these fraudulent emails that could describe the phrase “Request to reset your WhatsApp account”while in the body of the email you could describe: “We have received a request to reset your two-step verification PIN. If it wasn’t you, ignore this email. If you wish to proceed, please click on the link below.”
Lastly, they reaffirmed that the company never requests codes or PINs through emailsand they recommend ignoring the message, not interacting with suspicious links and strengthening the security of the account by activating two-step verification.
How to identify and avoid falling for phishing emails
He phishing It is a well-known term in the computer world. This is a method to trick a digital user into sharing passwords, credit card numbers or other confidential information. The threat arises from pretending to be a trusted institution (usually a well-known international company). They contact each other through different means of communication, but the most used of all has recently been email.
- If you receive an email requesting personal or financial information, not answer it. Organizations that work seriously do not request information through this means. They also do not contact by telephone or SMS messages. Another alternative is to enter the official page of the organization, entering with the corresponding web address in the browser. In the case of WhatsApp, they usually come from addresses similar to the official ones, but with small alterationsas [email protected] rather [email protected].
- Phishing emails often contain grammatical errors, spelling errors, or alarming language that pressures the recipient to act quickly, such as “Your account will be suspended within 24 hours!”
- Verify email security indicators. If it is essential to carry out a procedure or provide personal information to an organization, type the web address yourself in the browser and look for site security indicators. When doing so, you should note that the web address begins with https://, where the s indicates that the transmission of information is secure.
- Keep updated your PC software: Install security updates for your operating system and all the applications you use, especially your antivirus product, web client, and email client.
WhatsApp recommendations
Protecting your WhatsApp account is essential to avoid being a victim of these frauds. Below we give you some tips to shield your account and reduce the risk of being hacked:
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Activate two-step verification: WhatsApp offers the option to enable two-step verification, which means that in addition to the verification code sent by SMS, you will need an additional key to access your account. This extra layer of security makes it harder for scammers to access your account.
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Do not share verification codes: Never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even if the request appears to come from a friend or family member. WhatsApp will never ask for this code through messages.
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Avoid clicking on suspicious links: Scammers often send you malicious links via WhatsApp or email. Do not click on links from unknown sources and be sure to verify the authenticity of any messages before following instructions.
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Check your SIM: If you notice that your mobile line suddenly stops working or you cannot receive messages, contact your telephone provider immediately to verify that there has not been an unauthorized transfer of your telephone number.
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Monitor your conversations: Regularly check the messages in your WhatsApp account. If you notice that someone is sending messages on your behalf or if you have concerns about your account activity, change your password immediately.
With these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your WhatsApp account being hacked and falling into scam traps. Prevention is key, and being alert for signs of fraud will help keep your account safe.
Source: Ambito
