Have you ever received a WhatsApp message saying you won money or a gift? Maybe it came from a friend, so you trusted it. You clicked the link, and the next thing you knew, your WhatsApp account was gone! Even worse, the scammer started using your name to trick more people. Today we dive more into common Whatsapp Attacks.

This is one of the very common Whatsapp Attacks and many people fall for it. Let’s break it down and talk about how to protect yourself.

How These Scams Work

1. The Fake Link Trap Whatsapp Attacks
   A hacker creates a fake promotion claiming you won something usually money, promotions, jobs, data bundles, shopping vouchers, or even free electricity tokens. They then send it through WhatsApp.
2. Using a Friend’s Account
   If the message comes from someone you know, you might trust it more. But in reality, the hacker has already taken over their account and is using it to spread the scam.

3. The Click & Takeover
Once you tap the link, it may ask you to enter your phone number or WhatsApp verification code. If you do this, the hacker can lock you out of your own account!

4. Spreading the Scam
The hacker then starts messaging your contacts, pretending to be you. They may ask for money, send more fake links, or try other tricks to scam your friends and family.

How to Protect Yourself from Whatsapp Attacks

1. Never Click Suspicious Links
   If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Even if the link comes from a friend, verify with them first before clicking maybe by calling them directly.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
   This is a security feature that adds extra protection to your account. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t get in without your special code.
   • To enable 2FA on WhatsApp: Go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification and set a 6-digit PIN.
3. Beware of Requests for Codes
   WhatsApp will NEVER ask you to share your verification code. If someone asks for it, it’s a scam.
4. Update Your App Regularly
   Hackers find new tricks all the time. Updating your app ensures you have the latest security protections.
5. Educate Your Friends & Family
   If you see someone falling for a scam, warn them! The more people know about these tricks, the harder it is for scammers to succeed.

What to Do If Your Account Is Hacked

1. Try to Reclaim Your Account
   • Open WhatsApp and enter your phone number.
   • Request a verification code.
   • If the hacker is still using your account, WhatsApp may ask you to wait before retrying.
2. Contact WhatsApp Support
   If you can’t get back in, email support@whatsapp.com with details of what happened.
3. Warn Your Contacts
   Use another phone or social media to inform your friends and family that your account has been hacked. This stops the scam from spreading further.

Other Common Cyber Attacks to Watch Out For

• Phishing Emails & Messages
  Scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be from banks, social media sites, or delivery companies. They trick you into entering personal details, which they use to steal from you.
• Fake Job Offers
  You receive a message about a high-paying job that requires you to pay a small registration fee. Once you pay, the scammer disappears.
• ATM & Mobile Money Fraud
  A fraudster calls pretending to be from your bank or mobile money provider, asking for your PIN to ‘fix a problem’ with your account. NEVER share your PIN with anyone!

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