Cyber Warning for WhatsApp
WhatsApp remains one of the most widely used messaging platforms in the world, which also makes it a prime target for scammers. The app is the most popular messaging service in more than 100 countries and has been downloaded over 5 billion times — scale that inevitably attracts bad actors.
Another growing area of concern is the use of virtual numbers. Increasingly adopted for everyday communication, virtual numbers offer a flexible, cloud-based alternative to traditional landlines. They allow users to make and receive calls and texts on existing smartphones, laptops, or tablets, without the need for a second physical SIM card. While convenient, this shift has also opened new avenues for exploitation.
Drawing on first-hand experience supporting businesses that rely on WhatsApp and virtual numbers daily, George Lineker, Co-Founder of YourBusinessNumber, has warned Digital Journal that many users are underestimating just how sophisticated modern scams have become.
This concern is reflected in online behaviour. Searches for “WhatsApp scam” have risen by 212.5% compared with this time last year, peaking in October 2025 — a clear sign that awareness is growing, but vigilance still needs to improve.
Impersonation scams
“One of the most common tactics we see is impersonation,” Lineker explains. “Scammers will pretend to be a friend, family member, or colleague and claim they’ve changed numbers or are dealing with an urgent situation.”
These messages are carefully designed to create pressure. “If you’re made to feel like you need to act immediately, that’s often a sign something isn’t right,” he adds.
To reduce the risk, Lineker advises pausing and verifying the sender’s identity through another channel — such as calling a previously saved number — before responding or sending any money.
Prize, job, and giveaway scams
Unsolicited offers are another major red flag. “Messages claiming you’ve won a prize, landed a job, or need to claim a reward are incredibly common on WhatsApp,” Lineker says.
These scams typically encourage users to click links or share personal information. “If you didn’t enter a competition or apply for a role, treat the message with scepticism,” he warns. “Avoid clicking links altogether, and never share personal or financial details via WhatsApp.”
Account takeover and verification code scams
“Any message asking for a WhatsApp verification code should be treated as a serious warning sign,” Lineker says. “Those codes are never meant to be shared, and once a scammer has one, they can take full control of the account.”
He recommends enabling two-step verification and remaining cautious even if someone claims a code was sent by mistake. “Even if the request appears to come from a known contact, verification codes should never be shared under any circumstances.”
Business and customer support scams
Businesses are increasingly being targeted as well. “Scammers may pose as customers, suppliers, or even internal staff to extract sensitive information,” Lineker notes.
“For organisations, a single mistake can have a much wider impact,” he explains. “Clear internal verification processes are essential. Staff should be trained to question unexpected requests, confirm identities internally, and avoid sharing login or authentication details over messaging apps.”
How users can protect themselves
According to Lineker, the most effective defence is simply slowing down. “If a message involves money, personal data, or urgency, take a moment to verify it through another channel.”
He also recommends enabling two-step verification, keeping WhatsApp updated, and reporting suspicious messages. “In many cases, pausing before responding is enough to stop a scam in its tracks.”
Why vigilance matters
“WhatsApp scams aren’t disappearing — they’re evolving,” Lineker concludes. “While security features help, awareness remains the strongest protection users have.”
“Understanding how these scams work makes it far easier to spot them early and avoid becoming the next victim.”
