WhatsApp scams: Common types and how to protect yourself

What is a WhatsApp scam?

A WhatsApp scam is an attempt to steal money or personal data or to gain unauthorized access to accounts through the WhatsApp messaging app. Scammers often pretend to be a friend, family member, or official customer support representative, creating a sense of urgency to pressure victims into sharing verification codes, clicking on malicious links, or transferring money. 

The suspicious messages often target WhatsApp users in public groups where anyone can join without approval. Some WhatsApp scams are more targeted, with attackers focusing on specific individuals using social engineering techniques. 

Is WhatsApp used for scams widely today?

WhatsApp has become a commonly used channel for scammers and cybercriminals to target users. Due to its massive global user base of over 3 billion people and how frequently it’s used for personal communication, the platform opens the door for scammers to reach potential victims.

WhatsApp scams have become particularly prevalent in the U.S. For example, in the first half of 2025, Meta (which owns WhatsApp) removed approximately 6.8 million accounts linked to scams. This action was part of a global effort to crack down on fraudulent networks, including those connected to investment fraud, crypto scams, and pyramid schemes.

Globally, WhatsApp scammers are also becoming more sophisticated in the ways they exploit the platform to trick users. Security researchers have identified numerous ongoing cyberattacks that spread through WhatsApp. Examples include the GhostPairing scam uncovered by Avast and the Boto Cor-de-Rosa banking trojan linked to Astaroth. 

Unlike phone scams — which can vary in frequency depending on your location — WhatsApp scams can reach anyone worldwide, making it essential to treat every unexpected message with caution. 

Common WhatsApp scams 

WhatsApp scams typically aim to steal sensitive information, gain remote access to a trusted device, or steal login credentials. Once attackers have access, they can send messages to other people in your network as a “trusted contact.” 

Fraudsters use various WhatsApp scams to trick you into revealing personal data, handing over device access, or sharing login details. Take a look at the most common WhatsApp scams that users need to watch out for in 2026. 

WhatsApp dating scams

Criminals create fake romantic personas on WhatsApp to build trust with their targets. Once trust is established, they ask for money using different excuses, such as medical emergencies, travel expenses, or sudden financial crises. In some cases, they may steer conversations toward investments or other financial opportunities to extract funds. 

Romance scams have grown more sophisticated, with fraudsters now using AI-generated profiles and photos to appear more convincing, making it easier to deceive unsuspecting users. Vulnerable groups often include individuals seeking companionship online or those new to online dating.

WhatsApp job scams

With WhatsApp recruitment scams, fraudsters send unsolicited messages offering high-paying remote jobs. They ask users to complete simple tasks or pay upfront fees for training or equipment. Once you respond or make the payment, the scammer may ask for additional deposits to “unlock” more earnings. Job scams like these are particularly common in public WhatsApp groups. 

The primary objective of WhatsApp employment scams is financial exploitation. Scammers make these offers look real by copying legitimate company names, using professional graphics, and creating fake job descriptions for in-demand roles.

WhatsApp verification code scams

Attackers trigger login requests using your phone number, so WhatsApp sends a real six-digit verification code. They immediately contact you, pretending to be a friend or service representative, and claim they need the code. If you share this code, the attacker can link their device to your WhatsApp account and gain access to your contacts list to scam more people.

Anyone who uses WhatsApp regularly can be a target of these scams, but people who are less familiar with security measures, like two-factor authentication, are often more vulnerable. 

WhatsApp crypto scams

The main goal of these scams is financial theft. People are lured into fake cryptocurrency investment opportunities via public WhatsApp groups, where they’re shown false investment dashboards that claim high returns. They’re then pressured to deposit funds, only to lose all their money permanently when scammers disappear. 

WhatsApp text message scams

Criminals send bulk or targeted text messages containing malicious links or bogus offers (prizes, delivery issues, services) designed to harvest sensitive data, lead you into further fraudulent chats, or redirect you to phishing pages. Both general users and members of public WhatsApp groups are at risk of these scams. 

“WhatsApp Gold” scams

Users may get unsolicited calls or messages that promise a “premium” version of WhatsApp (usually with a catchy-sounding name like “WhatsApp Gold”) that has exclusive features. These messages often contain links that, when clicked, can install malware or steal victims’ data.

WhatsApp impersonation scams

Scammers take over or spoof a real WhatsApp account to pose as a trusted contact (like a friend, work colleague, or well-known company) and request money, codes, or personal information. These impersonation scams may send links to fake “WhatsApp Web” sites to your contacts. If someone logs in through those links, the attacker can clone accounts and use them for further scams. These scams are especially dangerous for users who tend to trust messages from known contacts without verifying first.

WhatsApp phishing scams

Phishing messages on WhatsApp often include deceptive links that mimic trusted services or official WhatsApp support communications, aiming to capture login credentials, steal personal info, or deliver malware. While many types of phishing messages exist, WhatsApp phishing campaigns  often rely on social engineering to appear credible and increase the chance you’ll comply. Anyone using WhatsApp can be targeted, but those who are less familiar with how official services communicate are especially at risk. 

WhatsApp investment scams

Forex trading scams on WhatsApp involve scammers luring potential victims into “guaranteed return” schemes through group chats or direct messages. These scams often involve fake profit stories and cryptocurrency or stock investments. Once enough funds have been taken from the victim, the scammers cut off all contact. These investment scams often seek out users who join public WhatsApp groups that discuss financial topics, like trading.

Prize, lottery, and giveaway scams

In this type of scam, users receive a WhatsApp message claiming they’ve won a prize or lottery. To claim the winnings, they need to click a link or provide personal information. These links lead to phishing sites or trigger malware downloads designed to steal personal information or financial details. Lottery scams like these also tend to target users who join public WhatsApp groups.

QR code scams

A scammer may send a QR code through WhatsApp, often claiming the code will unlock a prize or verify your identity. Scanning the fake QR code can redirect you to malicious websites designed to steal personal or financial information, which scammers can use to access your bank and social media accounts. 

WhatsApp video call scams

Fraudsters may initiate unsolicited video calls or use fake call prompts to trick people into sharing verification codes or sensitive information under the guise of support or verification. If you share sensitive details, the attacker can use that information to compromise your account or personal data. 

Gift card scams

Criminals may promise free gift cards or vouchers via WhatsApp. The links in these messages typically lead to phishing pages that steal personal data or install malware instead of delivering legitimate vouchers. This scam targets users who are drawn to deals and free offers.

Real estate scams

Cybercriminals can use WhatsApp to advertise fake rentals or property deals, usually asking for upfront “security deposits” or “application fees,” then disappearing once the victim pays. These scams often involve fabricated listings and a sense of urgency to pressure you to move the transaction outside regulated channels. They may overlap with impersonation scams, where attackers pose as trusted real estate agents or salespeople. 

Call forwarding scams

In these social engineering scams, attackers convince people to enable call forwarding or share access codes under the pretext of security checks. This step gives scammers control over communications or verification processes, allowing them to add devices or even pose as the victim to trick more people. Those who aren’t familiar with phone security settings are especially vulnerable.

Charity scams

In charity scams, criminals pose as charitable organizations or emergency fundraisers asking for donations via WhatsApp. These scams often spike after natural disasters, pandemics, or other humanitarian emergencies because attackers know people are more likely to respond when a message triggers concern or empathy. The fraudulent links either lead to phishing sites that steal personal information or direct donations straight to the scammer.

WhatsApp tech support scam

Some scammers impersonate WhatsApp support or technical teams, reporting a fake security issue or account problem. They ask for personal details, login credentials, or remote access to “fix” the issue, then use this information to compromise your device. Users unfamiliar with official WhatsApp communications channels are more likely to fall victim.

WhatsApp group scams

You may be added to scam groups promoting bogus investments or “get rich” schemes. These groups create pressure by urging you to join paid platforms or send money for supposed investments. Multiple scammers work together to endorse the scheme and trick people into sharing financial information or sending money. 

How to identify a scammer on WhatsApp

Unsolicited messages or calls on WhatsApp could indicate you’re being targeted for a scam. Watch out for these red flags:

• Unknown phone numbers. Scammers often send messages in bulk, targeting WhatsApp accounts indiscriminately.
• Urgent requests for information or money. Pressure to act quickly, especially from someone claiming to be a trusted contact, can indicate a scam.
• Poor grammar or spelling. Grammar and spelling errors (especially in your personal details) may signal you’re dealing with a scammer.
• Unsolicited offers. Unexpected prizes, giveaways, or job offers you never applied for may be a scam attempt, especially if the message includes links or instructions.

What to do if you’ve been scammed on WhatsApp

If you fall victim to a WhatsApp scam, acting quickly can help minimize the damage and protect you and your contacts. Take the following steps to secure your accounts and prevent further harm:

1. Block the scammer. Block the WhatsApp number and report it to WhatsApp’s support team.
2. Check for malware. Scan your device for malware, especially if you clicked a link or downloaded a file from a suspicious source.
3. Monitor for leaked data. Consider using dark web monitoring services to see if your personal information has been leaked on the dark web.
4. Secure your finances. Verify that you have control over your bank accounts and online wallets. Freeze your credit if you’ve given away crucial financial information.
5. Notify relevant organizations/institutions. Inform your bank and local law enforcement that you’ve been scammed.

How to protect yourself against WhatsApp scams

The best defense against WhatsApp scams is staying vigilant and using smart security practices. Prevention is always easier than recovery, so take these protective measures:

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA). These methods add an extra layer of security by requiring a password and a verification code. 
• Avoid clicking suspicious links. Scammers often send phishing links disguised as legitimate offers or emergencies.
• Communicate only with verified contacts. Confirm the identity of friends, family, or even businesses before engaging further.
• Be wary of requests for personally identifiable information (PII). Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive data (like bank details) via WhatsApp.
• Consider additional security services. An identity protection service, like NordProtect, can help with recovery if you fall victim to WhatsApp scams. Its online fraud coverage provides up to $10,000 for eligible scam losses, while Scam Protection detects scam activity. Combined with credit monitoring and identity theft recovery, NordProtect helps you respond quickly to online fraud.