Whatsapp Scam: Cybercrime cases have been increasing at a fast pace throughout the nation, and a fresh scam on WhatsApp is now gaining serious attention. The latest scam is called the Blurry Image Scam, in which scammers emotionally manipulate users and trap them with curiosity-provoking messages. What begins with a blurred image can ultimately result in device hacking or even bank fraud.
How the Scam Begins
Scammers typically share a blurry picture from an unknown number via WhatsApp. The pictures are usually followed by messages that evoke emotional or personal curiosity. “Is this your old photo?”, “Is that you in the picture?”, or “Check who this is…” are some examples of phrases used to instill curiosity and encourage users to click on the picture.
What Happens After You Click
After the user clicks on the picture, the user is led to a decoy link. This is where the fraud proper starts. The user clicking this link could end up at a phishing site which requests sensitive information like OTPs, banking login details, or other private details. Occasionally, these links download viruses or malware into the phone without the knowledge of the user.
What Can Be Affected
Getting caught with this scam could have severe ramifications. Your bank account could be drained, and your WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook accounts compromised. Personal videos, photos, and other data are stolen. The scam installs spyware or viruses in others that breach the security of the device.
How to Stay Safe
To guard yourself, never click a link or download a photo from a number you do not know. Always check privacy settings on WhatsApp and other apps. Enabling two-step verification provides a further layer of security. Also, download a good antivirus software for your phone. If you by mistake click on such a link, reset all passwords and inform your bank.
Strengthen Your Privacy Settings
Besides staying away from suspicious material, having up-to-date privacy settings is a good defense. Permit only your contacts to send you media and messages. Steer clear of joining unfamiliar groups or answering messages from unknown parties. Activate app locks using biometrics or PINs to bar unauthorized access.
Importance of Reporting Such Scams
Reporting such an incident assists the authorities in taking action at a quicker pace. In case you get fraud messages, report them both within WhatsApp and to local cybercrime authorities. Promoting awareness among friends and relatives can decrease spread and influence of such scams.