If you’ve been receiving calls and messages on WhatsApp from random international numbers, it’s a sign that you’ve been targeted by fraudsters. The majority of these calls originate with phone numbers beginning with +251 (Ethiopia), +60 (Malaysia), +62 (Indonesia), +254 (Kenya), and +84 (Vietnam).
Now days, Scammers frequently use WhatsApp scams from overseas numbers to try to steal your personal information or money. These scams can take various shapes, but they frequently include the fraudster impersonating someone you know or trust, such as a friend, family member, or government official. They may also impersonate a customer care agent from a firm with whom you conduct business.
After gaining your trust, the fraudster will frequently ask for personal information such as your bank account number, credit card number, or Social Security number. They may also request money from you or direct you to a URL that may install malware on your machine.
If you receive a WhatsApp message from an international number that you do not recognize, it is best to ignore it. Do not answer the call, do not click on any links, and do not provide any personal information. If you are concerned that you may have been scammed, you can report the incident to WhatsApp or to the authorities.
Here are some tips to help you avoid WhatsApp scams from international numbers:
- Do not answer calls or messages from numbers you do not recognize.
- Do not click on links in messages from unknown senders.
- Do not provide personal information, such as your bank account number, credit card number, or Social Security number, to anyone you do not know and trust.
- Be suspicious of any messages that ask for money or that seem too good to be true.
- If you think you may have been scammed, report the incident to WhatsApp or to the authorities.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from WhatsApp scams.