WhatsApp: beware of the new fake vote scam
Published
A new scam is currently circulating on WhatsApp, putting the digital security of many Italian users at risk. The fraud, which uses social engineering techniques, exploits the trust users have in their contacts to spread dangerous links and steal sensitive data or access to personal profiles.
The mechanism is simple but effective: the user receives a message from a known number that appears to have been hacked. In the text, the sender asks the recipient to vote for a friend or relative participating in a dance competition by clicking on an attached link. Many users, thinking they are doing a favor for a friend, click on the link without thinking.
Once the link is clicked, the user is asked to enter a verification code or log in using their credentials. In reality, this action allows the scammers to take control of the victim's WhatsApp account. Once they have gained access, the scammers use the profile to send the same message to all contacts in the address book, creating a chain that is difficult to stop.
The Postal Police recommend maximum caution and advise never to click on suspicious links, even if they are sent by trusted people. If you receive an unusual request, it is advisable to contact the person directly through another channel, such as a phone call, to verify that the message is authentic.
To protect your account, experts suggest enabling two-step verification in the application's security settings. In the event of an account theft, it is necessary to report the incident to the platform immediately and notify your contacts to prevent others from falling into the trap.
Sources: la Repubblica
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