More and more often, fraudsters are also using digital channels for their machinations. Now a completely new scam has appeared. The police warn ALL users.

The scammers exploit a vulnerability in the authentication of some users. (Symbolic image)Getty Images

Police are warning of a new WhatsApp scam. As “20 Minutes” reports, such cases have now occurred for the first time. Police warn against WhatsApp hacking: Several cases of hacked accounts have been reported to them, they said on Wednesday morning.

The fraudster sets up a WhatsApp account by using the victim’s phone number. The app then automatically transmits a one-time code via SMS to the phone number associated with the account. “The scammer uses a loophole in the verification process to obtain the code and gain control of your WhatsApp account,” the police warn citizens. “Consequently, it will enable two-factor authentication to prevent you from recovering your account.”

This content will not be displayed due to your privacy settings! In order to be able to see all content, we need your consent in the cookie settings.

Widespread form of fraud

In the reported cases in Valais, the fraudster wrote to all saved contacts and demanded money from them. “In addition, he demanded a large sum of money from his victim in exchange for the restoration of his WhatsApp account,” the police said. In the past month, the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) has received a large number of reports of this type of fraud.

This content will not be displayed due to your privacy settings! In order to be able to see all content, we need your consent in the cookie settings.

The cantonal police advise WhatsApp users to activate two-step verification in the settings. Furthermore, one should not transfer money, even if the fraudsters insist on it. And: “If you have been a victim, secure all evidence and report the incident to the police.