This is how "whatsapping" works, the new and dangerous WhatsApp scam

WhatsApp It has once again become a topic of discussion by Internet users and this time it is not because of a new update or failure in the system. Users have reported the emergence of another type of scam in the messaging app.

Is called “Whatsapping” and it is a practice that can put your online security and privacy at risk. Here we tell you how it operates and what to do to avoid it.

What is WhatsApp?

The new WhatsApp scam that currently has a large presence in Mexico is called Whatsapping.

Dinamic, a consulting agency specialized in the study of human behavior in the digital world, revealed in its study that 51 million users knew or talked about this problem during the last 5 months.

This fraudulent practice works when cybercriminals they contact people posing as family and friends to request personal data and money. Hackers create fake profiles using information collected on social networks and other platforms to convince the victim.

According to the report by the consulting firm Dinamic, the most affected group was that of 46 to 55 years old, followed by people between 36 and 45 years old.

Concerns have worsened over time, as identity theft has been growing over the past year. According to figures from the Citizen Security Council, until last month October They were identified 1,607 reports for this crime against the 505 complaints received in 2022. What it represents an increase of 218%.

Of the total reports received so far in 2023, 62% were due to hacking of information on social networks and 26% due to the theft of personal data stored on the cell phone.

How to avoid the new WhatsApp scam?

WhatsApp is a constant target of cyber attacks, so you should always be alert to avoid falling into these. These are some recommendations to avoid the new scam of the messaging app, which you can also apply to protect your online security.