Fraud: Do not send WhatsApp verification codes

You should be skeptical about messages coming from friends or acquaintances via WhatsApp in which they ask for a verification code previously sent via SMS.

Fraudsters try to get our data through every imaginary communication channel we use every day. Fraudsters don’t even stand on WhatsApp.

“Send me my verification code”

This message is coming via WhatsApp and seems to have come from a friend or acquaintance. The person asks for the verification code from the previously sent SMS message as they are told to verify it to their own account.

There is only background to these verification codes. Only the account holder should use this code for his own account. There is no point in forwarding the code to another account, and it is not provided by WhatsApp.

Such requests mean that a stranger with the phone number of the account owner tried to set up a WhatsApp account in his number and name. The other possibility is that the offender wants to take the existing account and this security code is required, which is sent by the provider and should actually exclude such acts.

If an SMS with a code is sent, the inquirer will have full access to the targeted WhatsApp account and the complete contact list. The actual account holder loses access and is left without the possibility of interference.

Most of these converted accounts are used to claim cash benefits from existing contacts.

Do not forward verification codes!

Police warn that such codes should never be sent.

It is recommended to read and follow the special security instructions of WhatsApp.

Suitable for:

They are: Press Portal / Police Station Leer / Emden