Whatsapp scams: Protect yourself from fake job offers and phishing

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

We received a fresh example of a message sent via WhatsApp, where the sender suggests the possibility of taking on well-paid work by clicking an attached link. It is better not to respond to such offers. Instead, delete the messages and report the sender as spam if it comes from an unexpected contact. Similar to classic phishing, such messages are usually the start of some scam, at least beginning with the theft of personal data.

Scammers typically create financially attractive offers. Similar methods include fake investment proposals (mainly popular on social media) or ticket sales offers for events, which, in practice, never reach the interested parties. The lure of easy money and savings is compelling and encourages risky decisions by irresponsible recipients of such proposals. This case is no different.

WhatsApp users must also be vigilant to other possible scam methods. One example is the "on Blik" scam, one of the most commonly used methods of extorting money. It starts with the takeover of the victim's social media account. The perpetrator impersonates the victim and sends requests for financial assistance to the victim's friends, suggesting execution through Blik. The victim, thinking they are helping a friend, provides the code, which enables scammers to withdraw cash from an ATM.

Another example is the "SMS to mom" scam, which involves sending messages where the scammers impersonate a close person, usually a child. They inform the recipient about a phone number change and ask for financial help due to a phone malfunction. The scammers ask for a Blik transfer or provide a bank account number to which the victim is believed to have transferred the money.