Cyber Experts Warn WhatsApp Users About Christmas-Themed Scams; Urge Enabling Two-Step Verification
New Delhi, 6th December 2024: Cybersecurity experts have raised an alarm about a new WhatsApp scam targeting users through Christmas-themed messages. Scammers are reportedly hacking users’ accounts by exploiting security vulnerabilities, prompting experts to issue guidelines to safeguard accounts.
In this scam, hackers send messages asking users to share a six-digit verification code displayed on their screen. If the target’s WhatsApp account lacks security features like “Two-Step Verification,” the scammers can easily hijack their account.
Experts advise enabling “Two-Step Verification” for added security. This feature can be activated via the WhatsApp settings menu. Users should navigate to “Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification” and follow the steps to set up a secure PIN.
Additionally, linking an email to the WhatsApp account is recommended for account recovery in case of hacking. Users can do this by going to the “Settings” menu and selecting the email linking option.
For enhanced safety, WhatsApp also allows users to enable “Biometric Authentication” or “Pass-Key” access. This ensures that only the account holder can log in to their account.
Cybersecurity professionals emphasise the importance of not sharing personal details or verification codes with anyone, especially unknown contacts. Users are urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious messages to avoid falling victim to such scams.
WhatsApp continues to be one of the most widely used messaging platforms globally, making it a frequent target for cybercriminals. Staying informed and proactive about security measures is crucial to safeguarding personal data.
