'Add me to WhatsApp' scam calls to be investigated
Summary
The UK’s data watchdog, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), is investigating a rise in automated "robo calls" asking people to add unknown contacts on WhatsApp. These calls are suspected to be linked to recruitment scams, where criminals might trick people into illegal activities or steal their information.Key Facts
- The ICO received over 3,600 complaints about these robo calls in September, a five-year high.
- Many millions of people are likely getting these calls, but only a small number report them.
- The calls often come from fake UK mobile numbers that criminals copy, a tactic called "number spoofing."
- Recorded messages sometimes offer part-time jobs to lure victims into scams.
- Scams may involve criminals asking victims to transfer money illegally or stealing personal info (phishing).
- Mobile companies, the ICO, and law enforcement are working together to stop these scam calls.
- WhatsApp has features to block unknown calls and bans accounts that send spam or automated messages.
- The UK government promised to eliminate number spoofing by November through a new Telecommunications Charter.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
