The newest WhatsApp money scam is tricking users into paying for the free messaging service.
Several users have reported receiving a text message, which appears to come from WhatsApp, stating that their “subscription has expired”. Little do they know where this money scam is about to take the them.
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The text message invites the recipient to click on a link and pay 99p for a “lifetime subscription” to the service.
Although WhatsApp used to charge users 99p a year, the messaging service went free at the beginning of 2016.
Since then a number of scams have attempted to trick users into paying for messages.
At the end of last year, many users received a message stating that WhatsApp would “become chargeable” on January 1, 2017.
It went on to offer the solution of forwarding the message to ten contacts in order to avoid the charge of “0.01ps per message”.
The hoax targeted inactive users and claims that when users have forwarded the message on to ten people their WhatsApp icon, that is usually green, will turn blue.
Another scam attempted to lure users into clicking on malicious links with the promise of £100 worth of Sainsbury’s vouchers.
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WhatsApp’s response to such a money scam is clear, advising users on how to take action: “We always advise you to block the sender, disregard the message and delete it.”
For future reference, WhatsApp says to look out for these points when you suspect a hoax:
- The sender claims to be affiliated with WhatsApp.
- The message content includes instructions to forward the message.
- The message claims you can avoid punishment, like account suspension, if you forward the message.
- The message content includes a reward or gift from WhatsApp or another person.
Are you a victim of fraud or money scam? Share your story with us on the Money Credit and You Facebook page!
Original article published on www.hulldailymail.co.uk.
