Gardai Warn Over WhatsApp Scam In Wicklow.

Gardaí in Wicklow have issued a warning about a WhatsApp scam following multiple reports of people that have been affected by it.

Gardaí in Wicklow have issued a warning about a WhatsApp scam following multiple reports of people that have been affected by it.

An Garda Síochána are asking the public to remain vigilant following the discovery of a WhatsApp verification code scam wherein scammers are gaining entry to users’ WhatsApp accounts.

Gardaí say that scammers are generating authentic verification codes that will be sent to your phone. Shortly after, the scammer will message you posing as a friend or loved one and willl ask you to send them the code you have received from WhatsApp.

Once you have shared the code with the scammer, they will then gain full access to your WhatsApp account, leaving all of your data open to them.

Gardáí have issued advice to WhatsApp users to help them avoid being scammed, such as:

• Never Share Codes: Treat your WhatsApp verification code like a secure password. WhatsApp will never ask you for it directly.

• Enable Two-Step Verification: This adds a layer of security by requiring a PIN in addition to the verification code

• Be Sceptical of Urgent Requests: Even if a message seems to come from a trusted friend. Verify their identity with a phone call or another means of contact.

• Report and Block: Report suspicious messages or accounts within WhatsApp.