Rise in WhatsApp hacking cases triggers fraud concerns

Pakistan is witnessing a sharp increase in hacking incidents involving WhatsApp, with many users falling victim to fraud and blackmail schemes, according to a report by ARY News.

Cybersecurity experts say the surge in cases is largely driven by scammers exploiting unsuspecting users through phone calls and social engineering tactics. In many instances, fraudsters contact victims from unknown numbers while impersonating representatives of courier companies. They claim a parcel is awaiting delivery and request a one-time password (OTP) sent to the user’s phone.

Experts warn that sharing such verification codes gives hackers immediate access to the victim’s WhatsApp account. Once compromised, these accounts are used to send messages to contacts, often creating fake emergency situations and requesting urgent financial help.

WhatsApp Launches Parent-Controlled Accounts for Pre-Teens

Authorities report that this method has led to significant financial losses, as friends and family members of victims unknowingly transfer money to scammers. In one case, a victim stated that messages were sent from his account to hundreds of contacts, resulting in multiple fraudulent transactions.

According to specialists, elderly individuals and homemakers are particularly vulnerable due to limited awareness of online security risks. Hackers take advantage of this gap, using convincing stories and urgency to manipulate victims.

Cybersecurity professionals are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid sharing OTPs or personal information with unknown callers under any circumstances. They stress that no legitimate organisation requests sensitive verification codes over phone calls.

Officials emphasize that increasing public awareness and digital literacy is essential to combat the growing threat of cybercrime in the country. Users are also advised to enable additional security features to better protect their accounts.