Due to suspicious links sent from unknown or seemingly familiar numbers, there has been a recent increase in unauthorized access attempts to WhatsApp user accounts.
The Electronic Security Service (ETX) has issued a statement regarding the matter.
Cybercriminals use this method to obtain verification (OTP) codes sent to users via SMS. If these codes are shared, the users’ WhatsApp accounts can be stolen.
After gaining access, the attackers send fake messages to the victims’ contacts, attempting to steal their financial assets and personal information.
The ETX urges citizens to remain vigilant and take the following security precautions to protect their accounts:
Do not open links from unknown numbers;
Download applications only from official sources;
Never share OTP or verification codes with anyone;
Enable two-step verification in the app’s settings;
Contact the app’s support service if you encounter suspicious activity;
Restrict your profile information (last seen, profile photo, status, etc.) to contacts only;
Inform your relatives—especially the elderly or those less familiar with technology—about such scams.
