WhatsApp scams proliferate: Users warned about fake job offers

WhatsApp users are exposed to various attacks, including unexpected messages from foreign numbers. Our editorial team received an example of a contact through the messenger from an unknown sender who claims to offer exceptionally well-paid work. It is better to avoid such offers.

Our editorial team received a fresh example of a message sent via WhatsApp, in which the sender suggests the possibility of taking on well-paid work by clicking the attached link. It is better not to respond to such offers, delete the messages, and report the sender as spam if it is an intrusive contact that was not expected. Similar to classic phishing scams, such messages often signify the beginning of a scam, commonly starting with the theft of personal data.

Creating financially attractive offers is one of the typical methods scammers use. In a similar way, fake investment proposals (mainly popular on social media) or ticket sales offers for events, which in practice, never reach the interested parties, are prepared. The prospect of easy money and savings are compelling topics that encourage risky decisions by irresponsible recipients of such proposals. This case is no different.

WhatsApp users must also be wary of other possible scam methods. One example is the "Blik" scam, which is one of the most commonly used methods of extorting money. It starts with the takeover of the victim's social media account. The perpetrator then impersonates the victim and sends requests for financial assistance to the victim's friends, suggesting execution through Blik. The victim, thinking they are helping a friend, provides the code, which enables the scammers to withdraw cash from an ATM.

Another example is the "SMS to mom" scam, in which scammers impersonate a close person, usually a child. They inform the recipient about a change of phone number and ask for financial help due to a supposed phone malfunction. The scammers request a Blik transfer or provide a bank account number to which the victim is expected to transfer the money.