How to Spot Scam Messages on WhatsApp

Scammers are using WhatsApp to steal personal information — learn the warning signs and what to do if you get a suspicious message.

In this guide (4 steps):

1.Know the three biggest warning signs
2.Check the sender before you reply
3.Do not tap links from unknown senders
4.Report and block the suspicious number

Know the three biggest warning signs

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Any message that does one of these three things is almost certainly a scam: (1) asks you to forward a six-digit code you received by text, (2) claims to be a family member in trouble who needs money urgently, or (3) says you won a prize and must click a link to claim it. Real companies and real family members will not ask you to send money through WhatsApp or share codes sent to your phone.

Warning

Scammers often create a fake sense of urgency — "Act now or your account will be closed!" Urgency is a red flag. Slow down and verify before you do anything.

Check the sender before you reply

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If you receive a message from an unknown number, look at the number carefully. Scammers often use international numbers that start with country codes like +44 (UK), +234 (Nigeria), or +91 (India). Even if the message claims to be from someone in the US, the number may not be local. If the message is from someone in your contacts but something feels off, call that person back on their regular number to confirm it's really them.

Quick Tip

WhatsApp shows you the country flag next to numbers. A US flag means the number is a US number. A different flag is an extra reason to be cautious.

Do not tap links from unknown senders

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If a message from an unknown number contains a link, do not tap it. Scam links often look like legitimate sites but with small changes — for example, "arnazon.com" instead of "amazon.com." If you're not sure whether a link is safe, you can type the main website address yourself in your browser rather than tapping the link.

Report and block the suspicious number

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If you receive a scam message, press and hold on the message bubble, then tap the three-dot menu and choose "Report." You can also block the contact: tap the sender's name or number at the top of the chat, scroll to the bottom, and tap "Block." This prevents them from contacting you again. Reporting also helps WhatsApp remove scam accounts faster.

Quick Tip

You can report a scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Your report helps investigators track and shut down scam operations.

You Did It!

You've completed: How to Spot Scam Messages on WhatsApp

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WhatsApp scams are one of the fastest-growing types of online fraud. Scammers send messages pretending to be a friend, a bank, Amazon, or even the government. Their goal is to trick you into sharing a code, clicking a link, or sending money. Once you know what to look for, these scams become much easier to avoid.

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