In public WhatsApp groups, fraudsters try to make their victims a lot of money. Users report losses of up to 200,000 euros.
In WhatsApp groups, a new fraud stitch lurks that attracts users with supposedly simple tasks and promises of high profits. However, the prospect of quick income can lead to losses of up to 200,000 euros.
As “Mimikama” reports, the initially harmless liking of Instagram profiles can quickly become a costly matter. Fraudsters shamelessly use the trust of the participants and later request money transfers for other supposedly lucrative tasks.
Fake groups: This is how the WhatsApp fraud works
The fraudsters operate with fictitious telegram channels and outsourcing users as follows:
- You invite you to a supposed WhatsApp “discussion group”.
- For each like on Instagram profiles, an amount of five euros is promised.
- A screenshot is then to be sent to the administrators of the group.
- Before the payment, personal data is requested, including the telephone number.
- With the information obtained, fraudsters can commit identity theft and carry out non -authorization -free transfers.
Manipulated trust: the role of bots and social pressure
Bots give the appearance of a lively community that allegedly benefited from small money transfers. While a few actually receive a payment, the inhibition threshold of transferring money falls if you trust the success of others. This tactic, known as social proof, promotes the trust of the victims.
The impression of seriousness is reinforced by using apparently authentic influencer profiles and professionally acting but fake platforms.
High risk for investors: new fraud variants
A current fraud variant aims specifically on investors by using fake trading apps that promise unrealistic returns. A documented case shows that an investor has lost almost 200,000 euros. Experts urgently warn against taking such offers without a thorough examination.
Caution should be exercised to protect yourself: suspicious offers should always be critically questioned and personal data should never be revealed carelessly.
