Cyber ​​criminals on WhatsApp have now started adopting more dangerous methods than before. Earlier, fraud was done by fake links, OTP fraud, and imitation of identity; now, a new scam has come to light in which the criminals send a normal-looking photo on WhatsApp, but that photo is full of dangerous malware. As soon as you download such photos, your personal information falls into the hands of hackers.

What is WhatsApp Image Scam?

According to cybersecurity experts, this new scam is targeting both Android and iOS users. This attack is especially done during festivals, big shopping sales, or any big news, when people are more active and also open messages from unknown numbers.

This is how the scam happens.

Scammers send a photo on WhatsApp from unknown numbers. This photo may look normal, like jokes, festival wishes, or normal forwards, but a dangerous malware is hidden inside it. As soon as the user downloads this photo, this malware gets silently installed on the phone. After this, hackers get remote access to your phone, and they do not even get a clue.

This malware can track every information typed from the keyboard, enter banking apps, steal passwords, and even copy your identity. Some advanced versions can also bypass security layers like two-factor authentication and silently withdraw money from your account.

Keep yourself safe like this.

Do not download photos, videos, or attachments from any unknown number.

Go to WhatsApp settings and turn off the auto-download option.

Avoid opening files whose size is very large or which look strange.

Immediately block any suspicious number and avoid talking to it.

If you suspect a scam, immediately report it to the official website of Cybercrime (https://cybercrime.gov.in).

Being aware is the biggest weapon to protect against cyber attacks. Think a hundred times before clicking on any link or file.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.