![]() Any attempts to call to verify their identity is often fobbed off with talk that there is a problem with the microphone. The story they tell varies, but centres on a claim that because they have a new phone they don't have access to their internet or mobile banking app and therefore need urgent help to pay a bill. It gives them a reason for having a different number, and means they can just use a generic term like 'Mum' and 'Dad', - though sometimes 'Sis' or 'Bro'. It starts with a message from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has just lost their phone and got a replacement. This type of scam has evolved from fraudsters impersonating a bank, police or HMRC. Sometimes dubbed the ‘Mum and Dad Scam’, this is where scammers use WhatsApp to impersonate family members in difficulty and in particular need of money. The most common WhatsApp scams to look out for 1. ![]() Scammers may pretend to be a family member and request money.Charge you for services that should be free. What about whatsapp scams install#Install malware - or malicious software - on your phone which spies on your activity and collects information that can be used in identity theft or lock you out of your phone.Persuade you to hand over personal details such as your name and address that can be used in identity theft. ![]() ![]() WhatsApp has two billion users - meaning fraudsters just need to scam a tiny fraction of people to make money.Ĭhris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at Santander UK explains that scams like these appear on your mobile phone texts too. ‘Hi Mum’ and ‘Hi Dad’ scams could be a particular problem for parents with children aged 18 to 25 who are starting or returning to university this Autumn, leaving home or going travelling. Yet, personal stories of it happening to people recounted on social media demonstrate anyone can be vulnerable to being tricked. It’s a distressing experience that leaves victims feeling embarrassed and devastated. Money Edit reader Christine similarly almost lost £1,000 to a WhatsApp scammer pretending to be her daughter.Ĭlicking on any scam link runs the risk of exposure to phishing scams, spam and malicious websites that allow scammers to potentially steal personal information, like your bank details. ![]()
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