By Jarren Ringle
Many people use WhatsApp for messaging. The WhatsApp webpage says, “With private messaging and calling, you can be yourself, speak freely and feel close to the most important people in your life no matter where they are.” In 2020, WhatsApp had over 2 billion monthly active users; now it has over 3 billion. The vast majority of users are in India, but the US ranked 6th in 2020.
As with many things, the more people use a technology or application, the more attractive it becomes to scammers.
WhatsApp is owned by Meta, the parent company of Facebook. Social media, such as Facebook, is a leading avenue for initiating scam interactions. Now, WhatsApp is joining the competition for your attention and potentially your dollars.
How does it work? Scammers can make initial contact through social media or by using contact information from a data breach. Once communication is established, they will suggest that it would be “better” to use WhatsApp to communicate instead of traditional messaging services. They will use WhatsApp because it is private. The communication is encrypted, and the service does not have a system in place to detect fraudulent or scam activities.
There are other services like WhatsApp. Signal is another service that can present the same risk. However, WhatsApp is the largest by user base.
So what can you do (or not do) to protect yourself? The steps to protect yourself are the same as they are for any such risk.
First, do not engage in unexpected interactions. When you get a text message that is not intended for you, delete it. Do not respond to the sender, as they are looking for a response that can lead to interaction. When you get an email from a “stranger,” do not respond to it, click any links, or scan any QR codes… just delete it.
Second, AI (artificial intelligence) is making this more difficult. Scam emails are becoming more difficult to detect. Scammers are trained to exploit our good nature and willingness to help others. Don’t take the bait.
Finally, WhatsApp is another example of a useful tool that evil doers have monetized. It won’t be the last. As long as there’s money to be made, there will be people doing it. Think before you act. It takes two for you to lose your money. Don’t be the one taking the bait.
Jarren Ringle is a member of SourcePoint and a volunteer instructor. SourcePointers come to Jarren for tutelage on their tablets, laptops, and the most popular of all devices – cell phones. He teaches various technology classes throughout the year including one-on-one sessions and group classes. Jarren also volunteers at the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. With many years of project management experience in various technology fields, he enjoys helping others with technology.
Technology 1:1 Assistance: Jarren Ringle provides guidance on technology in a 45-minute time slot. Do you have questions regarding a cell phone, PC, laptop or tablet? Share what the device is and what your question is upon registration so that Jarren can be better prepared to help. >> Schedule your 1:1