A new text scam is circulating in several European regions, posing a threat to WhatsApp users who may unknowingly fall victim to it. The scam involves receiving a message from a friend urging you to vote for someone in a contest, ultimately leading to potential account lockouts and financial risks for your contacts.
Bitdefender has identified this emerging threat, which employs an emotional ploy to lure users into clicking on deceptive links and divulging personal security codes. The scam initiates with a message requesting a vote for a friend’s daughter in a scholarship contest, prompting users to follow the provided link under the guise of a harmless action.
However, once users access the link, they are directed to a fraudulent website where they are prompted to cast a vote. Subsequently, a message pops up demanding the user’s phone number and a verification code sent to their device. This information is exploited by cybercriminals to compromise WhatsApp accounts, enabling them to hijack accounts and deceive individuals into sharing sensitive information or money.
Bitdefender has observed a significant increase in these fraudulent activities, with attackers deploying numerous deceptive domains and URLs in recent months, targeting a substantial number of users. The scam, labeled as the “Vote for My Child” scheme, has predominantly affected regions like Poland, Romania, and Germany, emphasizing the importance of vigilance among users globally.
To prevent falling prey to such scams, Bitdefender recommends safeguarding your WhatsApp account by refraining from sharing verification codes, verifying requests for money through direct calls, and promptly reporting suspicious messages within the app. Additionally, in case of a breach, users are advised to reclaim control by requesting a new verification code, contacting WhatsApp support, notifying their bank of any financial transactions, and informing their contacts about the security compromise.
WhatsApp also underscores the significance of not sharing verification codes with anyone to maintain account security, emphasizing the notification system that alerts users of registration attempts involving their phone number. By adhering to these precautions and remaining cautious of suspicious activities, users can mitigate the risks associated with such scams.