Scammers are targeting UK WhatsApp users with a deceptive ‘friends and family’ scam, urging caution among those who frequently send text messages through the app. This familiar ploy involves fraudsters posing as loved ones in urgent need of financial assistance, a tactic that has duped many unsuspecting individuals in the past.
Action Fraud has issued a warning to WhatsApp users to be vigilant against such fraudulent schemes. The advisory highlights the importance of verifying unusual requests made through the platform by contacting the supposed sender directly via their known phone number.
The scam typically begins with a message claiming to be from a family member requesting money due to a fabricated emergency. To avoid falling victim to this ruse, a simple step recommended by Action Fraud is to make a phone call to verify the authenticity of the request before taking any action.
In addition to verifying requests, users are advised to block suspicious senders and report any potential scams to Action Fraud promptly. This proactive approach can help prevent financial losses resulting from fraudulent messages.
The prevalence of such scams underscores the importance of following three key WhatsApp safety measures:
1. Contact Them Directly: Always confirm the identity of the sender by contacting them outside of WhatsApp.
2. Block the Sender: Report and block suspicious senders within the app to prevent further communication.
3. Report to Action Fraud: If money is lost as a result of a scam message, report it to Action Fraud for investigation.
Security experts have also raised awareness of this issue, emphasizing the emotional manipulation tactics used by scammers to exploit trust and urgency. By staying informed and implementing these precautionary steps, WhatsApp users can protect themselves from falling prey to fraudulent schemes.