Scammers are targeting UK WhatsApp users with a deceptive ‘friends and family’ scheme, which can result in financial losses. This tactic, often initiated with messages like “hi mum” or “hi dad,” has been ongoing for years, with cybercriminals exploiting the trust and concern of individuals to trick them into sending money.
Action Fraud has issued a warning to WhatsApp users to remain vigilant against such fraudulent activities. The scammers typically obtain phone numbers through data breaches and then impersonate family members in distress, requesting urgent financial assistance.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, Action Fraud advises users to verify any unusual requests by contacting their relatives directly through their known phone numbers. Additionally, recipients can block the sender and report the incident to Action Fraud if they have suffered financial losses.
Security experts have emphasized the seriousness of these scams, highlighting the emotional manipulation involved. Luis Corrons, a Security Evangelist at Norton, explained that these messages exploit trust and urgency, making them more dangerous than traditional malware attacks.
In light of these threats, it is crucial for WhatsApp users to exercise caution, follow security best practices, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
