- WhatsApp has implemented new features to alert you about scams in chats and groups.
- The app displays alerts and key information when a stranger adds you to a group or contacts you.
- Meta has removed millions of fraudulent accounts and recommends privacy adjustments.
- Authorities and experts insist on the importance of prevention and reporting.
WhatsApp has become a clear target for cybercriminals. that seek to take advantage of the trust of millions of users through increasingly sophisticated frauds. In this context, The messaging platform has introduced a series of security tools and measures designed to protect those who use the app against scams, especially in group and private chats.
The concern for growing wave of digital fraud and identity theft has led the company, backed by Meta, to strengthen its user advocacy and awareness strategy. Its new initiatives not only They seek to make it difficult for scammers to access, but also Provide users with more information before interacting with strangers.
New protection features in WhatsApp groups
One of the newest features is the one that activates when an unknown user adds you to a group. WhatsApp now displays on screen relevant information before you agree to join: Name and photo of the group, date of creation, number of members and who invited you. Thus, users can assess the possible risks and decide whether they want to stay or leave the group before even seeing the messages.
Along with this data, The app offers tips and warnings so you can identify suspicious signals, such as strange names, newly created groups, or unknown members. In addition, Notifications from these groups will be muted from the start., making it easier for you not to be drawn into unwanted interactions.
In order to maintain full control over who can add us to groups, It is possible to limit invitations from the Settings menu, selecting only your contacts as authorized to join youThis minimizes the risk of ending up in spaces where collective fraud could be attempted.
Protection against scams in private chats
The dangers are not limited to groups either. WhatsApp has strengthened its defenses for individual messages, especially in cases where the user receives communications from people not saved in their address book. When starting a chat with a stranger, the platform will display additional warnings and details so you know who's really on the other side of the screen.
These measures seek prevent social engineering attacks, Identity theft and typical frauds such as the “son scam”, in which criminals pose as relatives demanding urgent money for a supposed problem. If you have any doubts, it's recommended to always verify the person's identity, not share sensitive information, and, at the slightest hint of fraud, block and report the number.
Most common scams and how to protect yourself
The techniques of scammers evolve: from obtaining verification codes through deception —such as in fake social media giveaways to steal accounts— to the use of deepfakes, fake audios or personalized messages that mimic the voice and writing style of family members or bosses to manipulate the victim. Cybercriminals take advantage of any excuse, from dubious job offers to urgent requests for help.
Key recommendations to avoid fraud:
- Don't respond immediately and do not follow links from unknown contacts.
- Always verify identity from whoever contacts you through official channels.
- Be wary of messages that generate urgency or pressure to make quick decisions.
- Do not share personal or banking information or verification codes. under no circumstance.
- Use the app privacy options to restrict who can add you to groups or contact you.
If you have been a victim of fraud or attempted scam, informs quickly Contact your contacts to avoid a chain of scams and start the account recovery process through official WhatsApp support. You can contact organizations such as INCIBE or the Spanish Data Protection Agency, and in any case, report identity theft or loss of money to the authorities.
The ongoing efforts of WhatsApp and security agencies
Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, has intensified the detection and elimination of fraudulent accounts, reaching to block more than 6,8 million accounts associated with scams and suspicious activities in recent months. However, he emphasizes that criminals tend to reinvent themselves and create new profiles quickly, so education and Prevention remains the most effective weapon.
Authorities reiterate the importance of having a cybersecurity culture to learn how to identify suspicious signals and avoid falling into traps. In addition, there are helplines such as INCIBE's 017 in Spain and resources within the app itself for reporting dangerous messages. Citizen collaboration, as well as reporting, are key to stopping the spread of these scams.
With these improvements, WhatsApp strengthens its commitment to combating increasingly sophisticated scammers' methods.User engagement, caution, and common sense remain crucial to keeping conversations safe and free from scams on the most widely used messaging app.
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