The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (IC4) has issued a warning to WhatsApp users in the country, cautioning them against potential scam calls from international numbers. The warning comes after several users reported receiving calls from unknown numbers with country codes such as +44 (UK), +49 (Germany), and +35 (Belgium).
According to the IC4, the scam calls are part of a phishing campaign aimed at stealing personal and financial information from WhatsApp users. The scammers reportedly pose as representatives of well-known companies or government agencies and attempt to convince users to share their confidential information, such as credit card details or bank account numbers.
The IC4 has advised WhatsApp users to be vigilant and not share any personal or financial information over the phone, especially with unknown or international numbers. They have also urged users to report any suspicious calls or messages to the authorities.
In addition to the warning, the IC4 has also shared a list of safety tips for WhatsApp users to follow to avoid falling victim to such scams. These include:
- Not sharing any personal or financial information with unknown or suspicious callers.
- Verifying the identity of the caller by asking for their name and designation and calling back on a known and verified number.
- Installing and updating anti-virus and anti-malware software on their devices.
- Enabling two-factor authentication on their WhatsApp accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
The IC4 has also advised users to be wary of unsolicited calls or messages from unknown or suspicious numbers and to always exercise caution when sharing personal or financial information online.
This warning from the IC4 comes as cybercrime continues to be a growing concern in India, with scams and phishing attacks becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread. With more and more people relying on digital platforms and services for their daily activities, it is important for users to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from cyber threats.
In conclusion, WhatsApp users in India should exercise caution and be aware of potential scam calls from international numbers. They should follow the safety tips provided by the IC4 and report any suspicious calls or messages to the authorities to prevent falling victim to cybercrime.
