WITH more than 2billion users worldwide WhatsApp is a magnet for all sorts of cyber threats.
The popular app has been the unfortunate gateway for many hackers in recent years, resulting in some users being swindled out of thousands.
It's a worrying trend that has only got worse with the pandemic, as people rely more on technology to keep in touch with loved ones.
Scammers and hackers are always looking for new ways to trick victims, which make it all the more concerning.
But there are some regular patterns and themes to be aware of - and simple ways to keep yourself safe on WhatsApp.
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Don't talk to numbers you don't recognise
Cyber crooks love playing on our emotions to make a cash grab.
One of the ways they do this is using a random new number and claim it is a loved one or friend.
They'll act with urgency and use emotive language, to get you to rush into it.
Normally, they pretend to be someone you know in distress, claiming they can't use their usual phone number for some reason and urgently need you to send them money.
As you can imagine, a concerned parent would jump to help their son or daughter, so it's quite a nasty trick that many have fallen for.
It's better to just not talk to numbers you don't recognise.
And if you are worried about the person they're claiming to be, call them from their existing number to check - chances are they'll pick up and wonder what you're talking about.
Alternatively, you could catch tricksters out by asking the right questions, as one parent recently revealed.
Don't open random links
So someone you know has sent you a really good offer, it's almost too good to be true.
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You know this person and it's from their number, so it must be legit, right? Well, no, not likely.
As the old saying goes, if it's too good to be true, it probably isn't.
Think about how these messages are sent - would that person randomly send you a link to some wild offer with 90% off a big brand?
Is it written in a way they speak?
And does the link look official or is it long or obscure?
Sadly, they themselves have probably already clicked the link and have fallen victim to the scam.
It is then sent around to others without them realising.
Best thing is to let them know, and not click the link yourself.
Failing to regularly update WhatsApp
It's pretty basic but it's also the best protection you can give yourself with any app - keep it up-to-date.
While WhatsApp is pretty airtight, and messages are encrypted, hackers are constantly trying to find bugs to snoop in.
When they do find a way, fortunately techies are quick to fix it, but you can only reap the benefits if you have the update installed.
Most people have app updates switched on automatically, which is the best way to go.
You can manually check if an update is available by going into the app store, searching WhatsApp and seeing whether one is available.
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