Some people may already know, that today, criminals not only launch their actions through messages via Short Message Service (SMS), but also rampantly done through online messaging applications, namely WhatsApp.
There are various ways they try, to deceive and trap the users of this free application. Despite trying to keep the numbers and other data confidential, fraudsters have many tricks to carry out their actions.
Only, the mode can be known by looking at or reading it. Well, Tom Davidson as an internet security expert in the United States detailed it in three things, reported kmai from the New York Post, Wednesday (4/5/2022).
Chat from Strangers
Messages coming from unknown contacts should be suspected. It does not rule out the possibility that the sender is a stranger wanting to do evil.
They will entice users to interact, sometimes with irregular spelling or grammar aka many mistakes. This also applies to people in contact, who appear to be using a different writing style than usual. It could be that their cell phone has been hacked or stolen.
Give Free Promo or Discount
Messages about tempting offers, even when consumers don’t ask for them, also need to be carefully scrutinized. Including free gifts in any form, carrying the names of certain brands is a mode often used by cyber criminals.
Especially if the sender asks to send details of personal data, do not be responsible. Most likely it is one of the modes of deception.
Include Suspicious Links
Any text message that inserts a suspicious link can be a scam and should not be clicked on, even if it looks tempting.
According to Brian Higgins, a security specialist at Comparitech, scam messages often offer something to tempt users. "The message is disguised as an official message, offering technical support to resolve issues you may not be aware of, or letting you know that you've won a prize," Higgins said.
"Always make sure you're running the latest version of any platform," Higgins said. Mobile updates often include security fixes and must be downloaded because developers eliminate bugs that hackers use to attack devices.