WhatsApp is a brilliant way to stay in touch with family and friends, share photographs and make calls without running up a huge phone bill. But, like any online service, it can also be used by scammers.
The good news is that a few simple precautions can make WhatsApp much safer.
1. Never share your WhatsApp verification code
One of the most important rules is never give your six-digit WhatsApp registration code to anyone.
You may receive a text saying that someone has requested a WhatsApp code. If you haven’t requested one yourself, don’t share it. A scammer may be trying to take control of your account.
Remember: WhatsApp will never need you to tell them your verification code.
2. Turn on two-step verification
This gives your account an extra layer of protection.
Go to:
WhatsApp → Settings → Account → Two-step verification
Follow the instructions to create a PIN. Choose something that isn’t obvious and don’t share it with anyone.
3. Be suspicious of unexpected messages
Scammers can pretend to be almost anyone – a friend, relative, bank, delivery company or even WhatsApp support.
Be particularly cautious if someone:
- Asks for money urgently
- Says they have a new phone number
- Asks you to buy gift cards
- Requests a verification code
- Sends a suspicious link
- Asks for personal or financial information
- Creates a sense of panic or urgency
If a message appears to come from someone you know but seems unusual, contact them using another method to check it’s really them.
4. Beware of the “I’ve changed my number” scam
A common trick is a message saying:
“Hi Mum, I’ve lost my phone and this is my new number.”
The person may then ask for money because of an emergency.
Don’t automatically believe it.
Call your relative on their usual number or contact another family member before sending anything.
5. Don’t click suspicious links
A WhatsApp message might say:
“Your parcel couldn’t be delivered – click here to rearrange delivery.”
Or:
“You’ve won a prize – claim it now!”
Don’t click the link simply because the message looks official.
If you genuinely think it might be from a delivery company, bank or other organisation, go directly to its official website or app instead.
6. Check your privacy settings
WhatsApp lets you control who can see certain information about you.
Look under:
WhatsApp → Settings → Privacy
Review settings such as:
- Profile photo
- About
- Last seen and online
- Status
- Groups
- Calls
Consider limiting these to My Contacts rather than allowing everyone to see them.
7. Be careful in WhatsApp groups
Groups can contain people you don’t know.
Avoid sharing:
- Your address
- Holiday dates
- Financial information
- Passport or driving licence details
- Personal identification information
- Details that could help someone answer your security questions
Remember that anything you post in a group can potentially be copied or forwarded.
8. Think before sending photographs
Photos can reveal more than you realise.
A picture taken inside your home could show your address, valuables or personal documents in the background.
Before sending a photograph, have a quick look at what’s visible.
9. Don’t send money because of an urgent message
Scammers deliberately create panic.
A message saying “I need money immediately” should make you stop and check.
If someone claims to be a friend or relative, speak to them directly before transferring money.
If you’re being asked to make a bank transfer, don’t let embarrassment or pressure rush you into making a decision.
10. Block and report suspicious contacts
If someone is sending you suspicious or unwanted messages, you don’t have to respond.
You can block the contact and, where appropriate, report them through WhatsApp.
Don’t worry about being rude. Your safety is more important.
11. Keep WhatsApp updated
Updates often include security improvements as well as new features.
Make sure WhatsApp is updated through your phone’s official app store.
Avoid downloading WhatsApp from unofficial websites.
12. Protect your phone
WhatsApp security is only part of the picture.
Make sure your phone itself is protected with:
- A PIN, password or biometric lock
- Automatic screen locking
- Current operating-system updates
- A reputable security solution where appropriate
Never leave an unlocked phone unattended.
🚨 The Golden Rules
STOP – Don’t panic if a message sounds urgent.
CHECK – Contact the person independently.
THINK – Ask yourself why they’re requesting money, information or a code.
DON’T SHARE – Never give anyone your WhatsApp verification code or two-step verification PIN.
DON’T CLICK – Be cautious with unexpected links.
A Simple Rule to Remember
If a WhatsApp message makes you feel worried, rushed, frightened or pressured, stop.
That’s exactly the reaction a scammer may be trying to create.
Take a few minutes to check what’s happening before you click, reply, share information or send money.
Being cautious isn’t being difficult – it’s being smart.
