How to detect WhatsApp scams?

Instant communication through social networks and messaging apps like WhatsApp has become a fundamental part of everyday communication.

However, these platforms can become a hotspot for fraud, particularly through identity theft. Scammers use various techniques to impersonate someone else, usually a known person or a trusted entity, with the goal of obtaining personal information, money, or access to accounts and services.

This type of fraud can occur through different channels, such as emails, phone calls, text messages, or instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, which has seen a significant increase in such scams due to its popularity and the trust users place in the platform. That’s why understanding the scammers’ modus operandi and adopting protective measures is key to avoiding falling into their traps.

What is the modus operandi of WhatsApp scams? Criminals send messages from an unknown number, claiming to be a son, daughter, or close relative of the user. They say they’ve changed their number due to issues like losing or breaking their phone. Then, they create a sense of urgency to request money, using excuses such as being abroad without access to bank accounts, losing their phone and needing to cover unexpected expenses, problems with luggage and lack of resources to solve it, or technical issues with their phone that prevent them from using digital banking.

To avoid becoming a victim of WhatsApp scams, it’s important not to respond or send money without verifying the identity of the person contacting you. Confirm the identity of the family member through another reliable channel, such as a direct call or a message to their usual number and avoid sharing personal or banking information until you are completely sure of who is writing.

What to do if you’ve been scammed?

If you’ve fallen for the scam, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize the damage:

• Contact your bank immediately to explain what happened.
• Block the number, but keep the entire conversation or any data in case it’s needed for an investigation.
• Report the fraud to the Police or Civil Guard.

Digital security is everyone’s responsibility and being informed is the first step to protecting yourself. When faced with any suspicious message, caution and identity verification are essential to avoid becoming a victim. Sharing these alerts with friends and family helps prevent future scams and strengthens the digital community against cybercriminals.

Prevention is the best defense. Combined with quick action, it can make the difference between being scammed or thwarting the fraud attempt. CaixaBank emphasizes the importance of not trusting unexpected calls or messages requesting personal data or money. The bank also advises its customers to contact CaixaBank’s customer service directly if they suspect fraud, in order to neutralize potential scam attempts. Following these recommendations can make the difference between being deceived or stopping cybercriminals in their tracks.