In the rapidly growing digital era, WhatsApp has become one of the most popular communication platforms in the world. As of the first quarter of 2023, there were approximately 2.45 billion global WhatsApp users. However, along with its popularity come various security threats, including fraud through WhatsApp messages. One common form of fraud is phishing, where the perpetrator attempts to obtain sensitive information such as passwords, financial information, or personal data by posing as a trusted entity. There were at least 26,675 reported cases of phishing attacks in the first quarter of 2023, an increase of 738.38% compared to the first quarter of 2022 or around 3,180 reports in Indonesia. To protect yourself from this threat, it is important to recognize the characteristics of fraud via WhatsApp. Here are 7 characteristics that you need to be aware of:
- Suspicious URLs: Pay attention to the URLs included in the message. Phishing often uses fake or hidden URLs that look similar to legitimate sites. Be sure to check the URL carefully before clicking on it.
- Requests for Personal Information: Beware of messages that ask for personal information such as credit card numbers, passwords, or other identifying information. Legitimate companies will usually not ask for sensitive information via text message.
- Threats or Pressure: Phishers often use intimidation or pressure tactics to get victims to provide information quickly. If you are pressured to provide information, be cautious and verify the authenticity of the message.
- Short or Disguised Links: Phishers often use disguised or shortened links to hide the true purpose of the link. Avoid clicking on links that are suspicious or of unclear origin.
- Message Has No Verification Marks: check if the message is coming from an authorized account with a verification mark or green tick. The green tick is a sign that the business account is an official account that has been registered with META. META is the service provider of WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business. Brands can work with META’s Business Solution Provider (BSP) partners to manage customer communications.
- Offers Too Good to Refuse: Phishers often use offers that are too good to be true, such as free gifts, deep discounts, or lucrative investment offers. Think again before responding to these kinds of messages.
- Unofficial or Unprofessional Language: Pay attention to the language used in the message. Phishing messages often have unprofessional grammar or glaring grammatical errors.
The fraud mode seems to be growing along with public awareness about the current fraud mode on WhatsApp. Not only users or customers who are educated, but as business owners must also take tactical steps to protect customers from fraud modes. Using Sandeza’s WhatsApp Business API can be a preventive measure. The WhatsApp Business API can be used to secure your corporate name against fraud and protect the communication security of your customers. Find out more about the WhatsApp Business API here.
