WhatsApp Scam: Cyber criminals on WhatsApp have now started adopting more dangerous methods than before. Earlier, fraud was done by fake links, OTP fraud and imitation of identity, but now a new scam has come to light in which the criminals send a normal looking photo on WhatsApp, but that photo is full of dangerous malware. As soon as you download such photos, your personal information goes into the hands of hackers.
What is WhatsApp Image Scam?
According to cyber security experts, this new scam is targeting both Android and iOS users. This attack is especially done during festivals, big shopping sales or any big news, when people are more active and also open messages from unknown numbers.
This is how the scam happens
Scammers send a photo on WhatsApp from unknown numbers. This photo may look normal like jokes, festival wishes or a normal forward, but a dangerous malware is hidden inside it. As soon as the user downloads this photo, this malware gets silently installed in the phone. After this, hackers get remote access to your phone, and they do not even get a clue.
This malware can track every information typed from the keyboard, break into banking apps, steal passwords and even copy your identity. Some advanced versions can also bypass security layers like two-factor authentication and silently withdraw money from your account.
keep yourself safe like this
- Do not download any photos, videos or attachments from any unknown numbers.
- Go to WhatsApp settings and turn off the auto-download option.
- Avoid opening files that are very large in size or that look strange.
- Block any suspicious number immediately and avoid talking to it.
- If you suspect a scam, immediately report it to the official Cybercrime website (https://cybercrime.gov.in).
Being aware is the biggest weapon to protect yourself from cyber attacks. Think a hundred times before clicking on any link or file.