The Singapore Police Force (SPF) observes a trend of impersonation scams involving fake WhatsApp websites. Scammers create malicious websites that mimic the official WhatsApp platform to trick users into revealing personal information or downloading malware.
How to Recognise These Scams:
- Scam websites often use misspelled or slightly altered URLs (e.g.,
whetsoerapp.cc instead of whatsapp.com) to deceive you into thinking they are official.
- Be cautious of unexpected messages or links, even if they appear to be from WhatsApp, that ask you to click, download, or provide personal information.
What to do if you encounter such scams – "I can ACT against scams":
- Add security features: Strengthen your protection by enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your WhatsApp and other online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for scammers to access your accounts even if they obtain your password.
- Check for scam signs: Always scrutinise the URL of any website claiming to be WhatsApp. Look for misspellings or unusual domain names. Verify any suspicious requests with official sources directly, not through provided links.
- Tell authorities, family and friends: If you encounter such a scam, report the suspicious link or message to WhatsApp. If you have provided personal information or fallen victim, report it to the Police immediately. Inform your friends and family about this scam to protect them too.
Unsure if something is a scam? Check by calling the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799.