Hidden Cyber Scams in WhatsApp Wishing Messages

There is no doubt, that in today’s age WhatsApp has become a very important tool for billions of people across the globe. It is one of the native platforms where in groups we share our birthdays wishes, business updates and festive greetings. However, this has become a breeding ground for the cybercriminals who execute and implement their schemes using the features of WhatsApp. One of the common tactics they employ is sending birthday wishes which which are joyful and warm greeting we receive on special occasions which is meant to deceive and defraud unsuspecting users.

In this article, we will majorly talk about the scams that take place, how we can prevent it from happening and protect yourself and loved ones from happening these frauds.

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How Do WhatsApp Scammers Operate?

Scammers normally take advantage of your feelings by sending messages which are warm and fuzzy. When these scammers send you a message like birthday message, it is meant by the users that this is being sent by the trusted people in goodwill. These criminals operate on your emotions to encourage to click on the link or download attachments, which can certainly compromise with your data or infect your gadgets with malware or virus.

Let me explain you how these scams are unfolded:

1.?Creating a well-designed Fake message: The scammer creates a fake message which are convincing that appears to come from a trusted source. This could be your friend, colleagues, or your family members or even an organization.

2.?Embedding Fraud links or attachments: The message initially sent appears to be normal and harmless which may be a link or an attachment. For example: it can be a greeting card, a festive discount coupon or an invitation to watch a video.

3.?Malware Links: To make the greeting message more effective, scammers sent the messages in a fashion such as “Click here to view your gift” or “Download this greeting card”

4.?Executing the plan: Once you click on the link or download button, the link will make you redirect to malicious website to capture your details or install harmful viruses or software on your device.

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Various forms of Wishing Message Scam:

Scammers in Cybersecurity are constantly innovating themselves to send such messages which looks authentic and actual. I am sharing some of the messages which I have researched in WhatsApp solution:

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-?Phishing Links: When somebody sends you a message prompting you to click a message, you get redirected to a website which is meant to take all your information or credit card details. For example, during festivals, scammers might send you messages for promotion or deals.

-?Malware Attachments: These are files, which when clicked, gets installed on your device. These malwares are meant to capture sensitive details like passwords or banking details or to remain as a spy and see your all activities without telling you or your device.

-?Chain Messages: Some scammers ask you to send messages to other users like forwarding any message which might contain malicious links or software. The whole purpose it to harm as many people as possible. Moreover, the scammers want their plans to be authentic or credible as it circulates widely.

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How should you recognize these red dangers?

The most important thing is to have knowledge of how scammers operate and scam the users, there are other ways which I am showcasing below:?

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-?Unknown Senders: If you are getting a message from an unknown number sharing you a like or attachment, be on red alert.

-?Suspicious languages: Scammers often use urgency to employ their plan quicky with the users. Phrases Like “Act now”, “Urgent” or “Limited time offer” are meant to take an action urgently.

-?Incredibly Strong: Offers that seem too good to be true, such as winning lottery, large sum of money or getting something free are often considered as scams.

-?Strange URL’s: You need to hover any links to make sure it is authentic. Scammers often use these URL’s which are like big brands URL’s with slight variation in spelling or domain.

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How to Protect Yourself?

Here are some basic tips and tricks through which you can protect yourself from these scammers:

1.?Verify the Sender: You need to make sure that know the identity of the person who send you links or software for downloading. If it is really someone, then try another method of communication to confirm if the URL is sent by him only.

2.?Safe yourself from Unknown Messages: Even if a message is from a known sender, be always on the safer side to avoid clicking any link or downloading attachments.

3.?Enable two step verification: WhatsApp offers a twostep verification feature that adds an extra layer of security. Enabling this feature that even if a scammer gets a hold of your account, they won’t be able to crack your account on the second authentication.

4.?Educate others: Not even your family but inform your friends and colleagues about these scams. People must be aware of these malicious attempts, and it is only possible if we all educate others about the same.

5.?Antivirus Software: Always make sure you have an antivirus software in your device to track any malicious attempts and regularly update your software to protect yourself against such new threats.

Conclusion:

Wishing messages on WhatsApp may appear harmless, but they can conceal cyber scams, serving as a reminder that even the most innocent-looking communications can be risky. To stay safe on WhatsApp, remain cautious and follow these safety tips. Always verify the source and be extra careful before clicking on links or downloading attachments. Safeguarding your online presence is just as important as securing your home. Stay alert and informed!

By following these steps, you can ensure that the well-wishes you receive are genuinely positive—free from any hidden threats.