Stay Safe Online – current email scams

Posted on by Dane

Stay Safe Online

Which? Warn of WhatsApp Verification Code Scam

You receive an unexpected (but genuine) message from WhatsApp containing a verification code.  Next you receive a message seemingly from one of your WhatsApp contacts asking (on some believable pretext) for the verification code you’ve just received.  Because the message appears to come from a real WhatsApp friend, people have been tricked into passing on the code which then allows fraudsters to take over their account.  Scammers can then identify contacts and personal details from the message history and potentially target your friends with the information they have found.

How to keep your WhatsApp account safe

  • Don’t share your login details or verification code with anyone – not even close family or trusted friends.
  • Set up two-factor authentication (2FA)* to secure your account.
  • Report spam messages or block the sender within WhatsApp. Press and hold on the message bubble, select ‘Report’ and then follow the instructions.
  • Be wary of WhatsApp messages requesting money, even if they come from your contacts. If you’re worried, ring your friend to check they are OK.

WhatsApp users who have lost access to their accounts can contact 

*What is 2FA?
Two factor authentication adds a layer of security when signing in to websites and online services by asking for an additional code via text message or an authenticator app such as Authy.  Biometrics can also be used – a fingerprint, or a scan of your iris or face – as authentication.  You can usually find options for 2FA in the security settings of each account.  We recommend setting up 2FA for all your important accounts.

authy logo

 

 

 

Watch out for these scam emails:

tesco scam email

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both emails ask you to click on a link – which will try to get personal information from you.

If you have been affected by a scam – help is out there – Victim Support has a free confidential helpline 0808 168 9111 and so does Mind 0300 123 3393.

Report any scams to  www.actionfraud.police.uk   Sign up for Which? Scam alerts: https://campaigns.which.co.uk/scam-alert-service/ Find details of recent scams here: www.actionfraud.police.uk and on our Facebook page: Rainford-it-stay safe online

#staysafeonline #emailscams