WhatsApp hijack scam continues to spread


Scammers are continuing to focus on WhatsApp users and hijack their accounts, by posing as a lover and posing for SMS security codes.The scam has existed for years but has continued to catch people out, with victims sharing their stories on social media.

WhatsApp says users should never fork over their security codes to anybody, albeit they seem to be a lover .One victim said he was embarrassed to possess fallen for the "simple" scam.

What do you have to look out for?

You may be a target of the scam if you receive an SMS text message with a six-digit WhatsApp code that you simply weren't expecting.Usually you'd need this code when fixing a replacement account, or logging in to your existing account on a replacement device.

However, if you've got not initiated this request, it might be a scammer trying to log in to your account.In the next step, the scammer sends you a WhatsApp message posing for the six-digit code.

It appears to return from a real friend because that account has already been hijacked."I got a WhatsApp message from my good friend Michelle, saying she was locked out of her account," one victim, called Charlie, told the BBC.

"She said she accidentally sent the access code to my phone rather than hers, and will I just screenshot it and send it over."In reality, Charlie had sent the access code for his own account to the scammer."I think I fell for it because we all skills frustrating tech are often and that i was wanting to help," he told the BBC."It took me each day to understand what had happened."Charlie said he had deleted WhatsApp and wouldn't be using it again. He has switched to Apple's iMessage instead.


What do the scammers do with stolen accounts?

With a stolen account, the hijacker can message your friends and family, and pretend to be you. They may pretend you're having a crisis and ask your contacts for money.

It also gives them your contacts' phone numbers in order that they can try the six-digit code trick with new victims. By hijacking your account, the scammer also will remain in your group chats, where they might see sensitive information.

How are you able to protect yourself?

In a statement, WhatsApp said: "The safety and security of our users and their messages are really important to us. However, a bit like regular SMS or phone calls, it's possible for other WhatsApp users who have your telephone number to contact you."

It said users should:

  • never provides a password or SMS security code to anybody - not even friends or family
  • enable two-step verification for an additional layer of protection
  • be vigilant if you receive a message asking you for money. If unsure , call your friend or loved one to see 


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