New WhatsApp Scam Alert: Hackers Lock Users Out of Their Accounts!

A new scam is spreading on WhatsApp, where hackers take control of users’ accounts, leaving them locked out. Once inside, these scammers use the hacked account to target the victim’s friends and family in the same way.

How the WhatsApp Scam Works

Scammers trick people into sharing their One-Time Password (OTP) by pretending to be a trusted contact. Here’s how they do it:

1. Fake Message from a Friend – You receive a WhatsApp message from a known contact saying they accidentally sent an OTP to your number and ask you to forward it to them.
2. You Fall for the Trick – Since the message appears to be from someone you know, you share the OTP without thinking.
3. Scammer Takes Over – With the OTP, the hacker gains full control of your WhatsApp account, locks you out, and uses your account to trick more people in your contacts.

What’s Really Happening?

In reality, the hacker has already taken over your friend’s account and is now using it to scam you. By tricking you into sharing the OTP, they transfer control of your account to themselves.

By the time victims realize they have been hacked, the scammer has likely already hijacked multiple accounts.

How to Protect Yourself from WhatsApp Scams

To stay safe, follow these simple security tips:

✅ Never share OTPs – OTPs are private security codes meant only for you.
✅ Ignore random OTP requests – If you get an OTP you didn’t ask for, let it expire instead of sharing it.
✅ Verify through another platform – If a friend asks for an OTP, call or message them on another app to confirm it’s really them.
✅ Enable Two-Step Verification – This adds extra security to your WhatsApp account.
✅ Report suspicious activity – If you think someone’s account is hacked, warn your contacts and report it to WhatsApp support.

Final Warning

If you ever get a message asking for an OTP, ignore it. Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources. Hackers try to create urgency and gain trust to trick people—stay cautious and protect your WhatsApp account.

For more security tips and scam alerts, stay tuned!