(with video below) Since you are reading this, you probably know that WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps out there. However, criminals prey on naive users to make money and also to compromise their laptops and other devices. Here are 5 scary WhatsApp scams you need to avoid.
In the latest scam, WhatsApp users are receiving a message encouraging them to switch to a premium version of the app named WhatsApp Gold. "Hey, finally secret WhatsApp Gold version has been leaked. This version is used only by big celebrities. Now we can use it too.", says the message.
However, the bogus WhatsApp Gold contains malicious software that tracks users and steals their personal data and files. The message introducing you to this WhatsApp Gold version invites you to access a questionable website goldenversion.com.
The scam is remarkably similar the recent WhatsApp Plus hoax, an app that promised users the chance to send files of unlimited size and use WhatsApp with more than one number, but got them blocked by WhatsApp due to security concerns.
In a different WhatsApp scam, you might receive an email or a text message claiming to be sent by an official WhatsApp administrator.
Watch the video below to see exactly what the message says:
WhatsApp Text Message Scam Video
WhatsApp does not send messages or emails asking its users to upgrade or download a different app. On the other hand, do not download anything that comes from external links until the Whatsapp app sends you the official message for upgrading via iTunes or GooglePlay.
Whatsapp Gold Scam: How To Report
Make your family and friends aware of the Whatsapp Gold Scam by sharing it on social media using the buttons provided. You can also officially report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission using the link below:
How to protect yourself more:
If you want to be the first to find out the most notorious scams every week, feel free to subscribe to the Scam Detector newsletter here. You'll receive periodical emails and we promise not to spam. Last but not least, use the Comments section below to expose other scammers.
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Educate yourself with the videos below:
This movie shows how a victim lost over $30,000 to an intricate scheme which is still around years later.
