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WhatsApp and Telegram scams encompass a variety of deceptive schemes that exploit users through manipulation
to reveal personal information, transfer money, or install harmful software.
These scams exploit trust, fear, or greed, including impersonation, phishing, investment, and gift scams.
A new type of scam has emerged where users must be cautious of unexpected calls from group chat members,
potentially leading to significant financial losses.
MODUS OPERANDI:
The scam entails a fraudster posing as a participant in a WhatsApp group chat.
They typically use a fabricated profile picture and username to create an illusion of authenticity.
Subsequently, the scammer places a call and informs the victims that they will receive a one-time passcode (OTP) to participate in a group video call.
Their true intention is to obtain access to the victim's account.
They deceive the victim into divulging the OTP under the pretence of "registering" for the call.
In truth, the OTP is utilised to register the victim's WhatsApp account on another device, enabling the scammer to seize control.
Subsequently, scammers may exploit the compromised account to target the victim's contacts, possibly soliciting funds or propagating additional scams.
The code given serves as an access code, enabling the scammer to take control of the victim's WhatsApp account by registering it on another device.
Afterwards, the scammer enables two-step verification, effectively barring the victim from accessing their own account.
With this control, the scammer can exploit the victim's contacts by sending messages, often requesting money under false claims of urgent need.
Alternatively, scammers send phishing links.
A phishing OTP (One-Time Password) link is a type of phishing link that targets multi-factor authentication (MFA).
These links deceive users into providing their one-time passwords or verification codes, which are used as an extra security measure during logins or transactions.
This link enables attackers to take over the victim's account, preventing the victim from accessing it.
RED FLAGS:
The message is from an unfamiliar number.
The message includes a link or a code.
The message exhibits poor writing or contains grammatical errors, though this indicator is becoming less common as scammers leverage generative AI to refine their messages.
Any message that requests any of your details.
The link within the message ends with: .bitly/.yipsu
The link starts with HTTP and not HTTPS.
WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
Set up a PIN for WhatsApp to secure access to your account:
This precaution prevents unauthorised use of your phone to send fraudulent messages and protects against potential scams.
Check URLs:
Be cautious with links. Verify the URL before clicking, and ensure it matches the official website.
Enable Two-Step Verification:
Activate WhatsApp's two-step verification to add an extra layer of security.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information:
Refrain from sharing sensitive information like passwords or bank details over WhatsApp.
Update App Regularly:
Keep WhatsApp updated to benefit from the latest security features and bug fixes.
Educate Yourself:
Stay informed about common phishing techniques and how to recognise them.
Use Official Sources:
Only download apps and updates from official app stores and trusted websites.
Report Suspicious Messages:
Report and block contacts that send suspicious or unsolicited messages.
Be Sceptical of Urgency:
Be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency and press you to act quickly.
Enable Security Notifications:
Turn on security notifications in WhatsApp to be alerted if your security code changes.
Specialised Security Services' Cybercrime Unit specialises in deciphering the scams mentioned above.
If you suspect any of the above fraud or require assistance to ensure that you or your company's devices adhere to security standards, contact Mr Mike Bolhuis for his SSS Cybercrime unit's help.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.
This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:
Follow the link to our WhatsApp group:
"JOIN" to ensure you never miss our daily updates.
You will receive automatic notifications as soon as a new project is posted.
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
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Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services
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Pretoria, Gauteng 0039
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