Watch out for this WhatsApp Scam

Large community or religious WhatsApp groups are being targeted by scammers who infiltrate them to deceive their members into sending them money.

The fraud often begins when a member of the group receives a WhatsApp audio call from the fraudster, claiming, to be a member of the group. The fraudster will then call the victim and say they are sending a one-time passcode which will allow them to join an upcoming video call for group members. The scammer then asks the victim to share this passcode with them so they can be "registered" for the video call.
Here's what's really happening: The scammer is asking for a registration code to register the victim's WhatsApp account to a new device where they then "port" their WhatsApp profile over and make it impossible for the victim to access their account. The scammer will then message other members of the group, or friends and family in the victim's contacts, asking them to transfer money urgently as they are in desperate need of help.

* Set up two-step verification to give an extra layer of protection to your account. Tap Settings > Account >Two-step verification > Enable.

* Never share your account's two-factor authentication (2FA) code (that's the six digit code you receive via SMS).

* THINK. CALL. If a family member or friend makes an unusual request on WhatsApp, always call the person to confirm their identity.

* Reporting spam messages or blocking a sender within WhatsApp. Press and hold on the message bubble, select 'Report' and then follow the instructions.

Ed: If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.