Messaging Fraud Guide
WhatsApp Scams
WhatsApp's reach makes it a top target for scammers. From the 'Hi Mum, this is my new number' impersonation scam to verification-code theft and fake recruiter offers, here's what to watch for.
What is this scam?
WhatsApp scams rely on familiarity and speed. A message from a 'family member' on a new number, a friend asking for a six-digit code, or a recruiter offering easy daily-task money all create just enough urgency to bypass careful thinking. The scams are simple to recognise once you know the patterns — and the rule is almost always the same: never act on a single WhatsApp message asking for money, codes, or links.
Common warning signs
- Message from a family member claiming a 'new number'
- Friend asks you to forward a six-digit code 'sent by mistake'
- Recruiter offers easy money for liking videos or rating products
- Added to a group with strangers and a 'mentor' figure
- Link to a 'WhatsApp Gold' upgrade or feature
- Giveaway from a brand requiring you to share with 20 contacts
- Voice or video call from an unknown international number
Realistic scam examples
Hi Mum / Hi Dad impersonation
Hi Mum, my phone broke and this is my temporary number. Please save it. I've got a payment that needs to go out today and my banking app isn't working on this device. Can you help and I'll send it back tomorrow? x
Six-digit code theft
Hey! I sent you a 6-digit WhatsApp code by mistake — meant to type my own number. Can you forward it to me? Thanks 🙏
Fake job offer
Hi! I'm Sarah from TalentHub recruitment. We have a remote part-time role: like 30 YouTube videos per day, $50–$300 daily, paid in USDT. Reply YES to start with a free training task.
How to stay safe
- If a 'family member' messages from a new number, call their old number to verify before sending money.
- Never share six-digit verification codes with anyone — they're how scammers take over your account.
- Enable two-step verification in WhatsApp (Settings → Account → Two-step verification).
- Real recruiters never pay you in crypto for liking videos. Anything that pattern is always a scam.
- Leave and report unsolicited groups. Don't engage with 'mentors' or 'trading signals'.
- Report scam chats inside WhatsApp (tap the contact → Report) and to Action Fraud / FTC.
Not sure if a message is a scam?
Paste it into our free AI scam checker for an instant analysis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 'Hi Mum' WhatsApp scam?
A scammer messages claiming to be your son or daughter on a 'new number', then asks for an urgent payment. It has cost UK families millions in the last two years. Always verify with a phone call to the old number.
Why would someone ask for my WhatsApp code?
Because they're trying to log into your account. The six-digit code WhatsApp sends is the only thing protecting your account. Anyone asking for it is taking over your number.
Are WhatsApp job offers real?
Cold WhatsApp messages offering easy task-based income are virtually always a scam — typically a precursor to a fake crypto investment platform. Real recruiters use LinkedIn, email or company websites.
How do I report a WhatsApp scam?
Inside the chat, tap the contact name → Report. Then forward the message to 7726 (UK), report to Action Fraud (UK) or the FTC (US), and block the number.