The Regional Security System (RSS) is warning the public about a series of WhatsApp scams that have significantly affected individuals throughout the region.

Officials at the RSS Headquarters are actively working to prevent citizens of member states from becoming victims of these scams.

Victims often receive WhatsApp messages from unfamiliar numbers, or from numbers pretending to be WhatsApp support, asking them to send a code they received via SMS.
Victims are misled into believing that the code is necessary to verify their WhatsApp account.

Once they share it, the hackers are able to access and take control of their accounts.

The hackers then use the victim’s number to message people in their contact list, asking for money to be sent via a money transfer service.

In some cases, they may claim to be stranded abroad and needing funds for hotel accommodations or an airline ticket. Additionally, these criminals might send links or codes to their contacts to lure in more victims.

The RSS’s Asset Recovery Unit (ARU) is urging WhatsApp users to stay alert and be cautious while using the platform.

To lower the chances of falling victim to these scams, individuals are advised to follow these guidelines:

•⁠ ⁠Verify requests according to recommended steps

•⁠ ⁠Safeguard personal information

•⁠ ⁠Be careful with verification codes

•⁠ ⁠Report any suspicious actions to local law enforcement

•⁠ ⁠Activate two-factor authentication on WhatsApp

The public is also encouraged to stay informed about this issue and to collaborate with local authorities.