Hey! A strange incident happened to me today. I got an international WhatsApp call--a total stranger. I picked up phone but no one answered. I called back and again no response.
Is this happening to you as well? It is WhatsApp International Call Scam, don't pick up the call!!
In today's digital age, WhatsApp has become an integral part of our daily communication. With more than two billion active users worldwide, it's no surprise that scammers are finding ways to exploit the platform.
Breaking News: WhatsApp Banned Over 4.7 Million Accounts in March 2023!!
One of the latest scams is the WhatsApp international call scam. In this scam, fraudsters are using WhatsApp to lure people into making international calls, resulting in hefty phone bills.
While some are giving job offers in exchange of money and ends up looting.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at this scam, how it works, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself.
What is the WhatsApp International Call Scam?
The WhatsApp international call scam is a relatively new tactic used by fraudsters to trick users into making expensive international calls.
Scammers typically use a technique known as "Wangiri fraud," which means "one-ring and cut." In this scam, scammers call you once and immediately hang up.
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| From NDTV |
When you call back, you are redirected to an international premium rate number, which charges exorbitant rates for each minute of the call.
Another scam is scammers audio or video call you and give you simple job offers. Offers are exciting and promise large amount of money. But they loot all the money from you through a bet.
How Can I Restore My Banned WhatsApp Account?
How Does the Scam Work?
Scammers usually target WhatsApp users by sending them a message claiming to be from a friend or relative who is traveling abroad.
The message will ask you to call a certain number to speak with them. When you make the call, scammers will play a pre-recorded message, encouraging you to stay on the line for a chance to win a prize or receive important information.
However, in reality, the call is being routed to an international premium rate number, and you will be charged exorbitant rates for each minute of the call.
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| From MoneyControl |
How to Protect Yourself from the Scam?
There are several ways to protect yourself from falling prey to the WhatsApp international call scam:
1. Do not answer calls or messages from unknown numbers.
Give no response to unrecognized internationall calls or messages.
2. Be wary of messages that ask you to call a particular number.
Verify the authenticity of the message by contacting the sender on a different platform or number.
3. Install and use a reliable anti-virus and anti-malware software on your mobile device.
4. Check your phone bill regularly to ensure there are no unusual charges.
5. If you receive a call from an unknown number, do not call back unless you are sure it is a legitimate call.
6. Block suspicious numbers immediately.
7. Do not disclose any personal or financial information to unknown numbers.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp international call scam is a growing problem that can result in significant financial losses.
To protect yourself from this scam, be wary of messages that ask you to call an international number, do not answer calls or messages from unknown numbers, install and use reliable anti-virus and anti-malware software, and regularly check your phone bill for unusual charges.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and a little caution can go a long way in protecting yourself from scams. Stay alert and stay safe!