10 common WhatsApp scams, and how to avoid them

WhatsApp has become a convenient way to stay connected, but it has also turned into a hunting ground for scammers. From fake job offers to romance schemes, fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to deceive users.

Here are ten of the most common WhatsApp scams and practical tips to help you stay safe:

1. Impersonation scams

In impersonation scams, criminals pretend to be someone you know, a friend, colleague, or family member. They may claim they’ve changed their phone number or that they’re in urgent trouble and need money immediately. To appear believable, scammers often steal profile photos from social media.

How to avoid it: Always verify requests for money by calling the person directly on a trusted number.

2. Romance scams

Romance scams often begin on dating apps or social media platforms before moving to WhatsApp, where scammers feel less restricted. After building emotional trust, they invent emergencies such as medical bills or travel costs and ask for financial help.

How to avoid it: Be cautious of online relationships that escalate quickly or involve repeated financial requests.

3. Lottery or prize draw scams

These scams involve messages claiming you’ve won a prize from a well-known brand or organisation. To claim your “winnings,” you’re asked to pay a processing fee or share personal details. The sense of urgency is designed to stop you from thinking critically.

How to avoid it: Remember that legitimate lotteries don’t contact winners randomly or ask for upfront payments.

4. Job scams

Fake recruiters may contact you with attractive job offers you never applied for, then ask to continue the conversation on WhatsApp. They may request payment for training or equipment, or collect sensitive personal details for “onboarding.”

How to avoid it: Research the company independently and never pay to secure a job.

5. WhatsApp verification code scams

Here, scammers try to access your WhatsApp account by requesting a login code sent to your phone. They may pose as a friend who claims the code was sent to you by mistake. Sharing the code gives them control of your account.

How to avoid it: Never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone — under any circumstances.

6. Gift card scams

Gift card scams promise free vouchers or discounts in exchange for completing surveys or clicking links. These links may install malware or harvest personal information.

How to avoid it: Ignore unsolicited offers and avoid clicking unknown links.

7. Charity scams

Fraudsters exploit compassion by posing as charities, especially during disasters or emergencies. They use emotional language and urgent appeals to pressure people into donating quickly.

How to avoid it: Donate only through verified charity websites and trusted organisations.

8. Tech support scams

In these scams, someone claims to be from WhatsApp support and warns of a security problem with your account. They may ask for login details or encourage you to install software that gives them control of your device.

How to avoid it: WhatsApp does not contact users directly for support via messages.

9. Crypto scams

Crypto scams promote fake investment opportunities promising high returns with little risk. Once money is sent, it’s usually impossible to recover.

How to avoid it: Be skeptical of guaranteed profits and unsolicited investment advice.

10. Investment scams

Beyond cryptocurrency, scammers promote fake stocks or exclusive investment opportunities. They often add victims to WhatsApp groups filled with fake success stories to create credibility.

How to avoid it: Take time to research and never invest under pressure. (The Nation)