Cybercriminals are constantly developing new ways to target users, and one of the most common scams in recent years is the WhatsApp OTP code hijack scam. This fraudulent activity aims to take control of a victim’s WhatsApp account by tricking them into sharing their One-Time Password (OTP). Once hijacked, scammers use the compromised account for fraudulent activities, including impersonation and financial scams.
How Does the Scam Work?
The scam typically unfolds in the following steps:
- Fake Verification Request: The scammer attempts to log into WhatsApp using the victim’s phone number. This triggers WhatsApp to send an OTP to the legitimate user via SMS.
- Social Engineering Tactics: The scammer, often posing as a friend, WhatsApp support, or a trusted entity, contacts the victim and asks for the OTP. They may claim it was sent by mistake or is required for verification.
- Account Takeover: If the victim shares the OTP, the scammer gains access to their WhatsApp account, logs them out, and changes the recovery settings to lock them out.
- Exploiting the Hacked Account: The scammer may use the hijacked account to:
- Impersonate the victim and request money from their contacts.
- Spread malware or phishing links.
- Use the account for further scams and fraudulent activities.
How to Stay Safe from the WhatsApp OTP Scam
To protect yourself from this scam, follow these essential security measures:
1. Never Share Your OTP
WhatsApp will never ask you for your OTP code. If someone requests it, assume it’s a scam.
2. Enable Two-Step Verification
- Go to WhatsApp Settings > Account > Two-step verification and set up a six-digit PIN.
- This adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access even if your OTP is compromised.
3. Be Cautious of Unknown Messages & Calls
- Avoid responding to unknown numbers or suspicious messages asking for personal details.
- Verify with the sender directly through a separate communication method.
4. Log Out of WhatsApp Web Sessions
- Regularly check Linked Devices in WhatsApp settings to ensure your account is not accessed on unauthorized devices.
5. Report Suspicious Activity
- If you suspect an account hijack attempt, report the number to WhatsApp through Settings > Help > Contact Us.
6. Educate Friends & Family
- Inform people in your network about this scam to prevent them from falling victim.
