How Hackers Target WhatsApp: Their Motives and How to Stay Safe

The well-known scam of the son in trouble starts with a message asking for money after claiming to have lost their cell phone. The attackers behind this scam are after more than just money – they also aim to gain access to the victim’s WhatsApp account. According to a study by Kaspersky, almost 90% of cyberattacks target WhatsApp, making it a prime target for criminals.

The reason WhatsApp is targeted is because having control of an account provides access to a wide network of contacts, including friends, family, and colleagues. Attackers use this credibility to request money, personal data, or even photos that can be used for extortion. The son in distress scam often involves requesting money through various platforms like Bizum, PayPal, or bank transfers, taking advantage of a parent’s vulnerability in an emergency situation.

Once attackers have control of a WhatsApp account, they can use it to contact the victim’s contacts and request money or personal information. They may even use voice synthesizers to imitate the victim’s voice in audio messages. By gaining access to the victim’s account, attackers can also access graphic material and videos that can be used for coercion.

WhatsApp, like other messaging platforms, has a two-factor verification system to enhance security. However, attackers may attempt to trick victims into giving them the temporary code sent by WhatsApp to take control of the account. This highlights the importance of being cautious with sharing sensitive information and verifying requests for authentication codes.

Experts recommend taking measures to protect against these attacks, including being cautious of sharing sensitive information, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity threats. By staying vigilant and adopting these security measures, individuals can reduce their risk of falling victim to cyberattacks like the son in distress scam.