WhatsApp is a convenient way to connect with friends, family, and colleagues saved in our phone contacts. But fraudsters view it as a goldmine for exploitation. A new WhatsApp scam has surfaced where these con artists can easily steal identities and money. Shockingly, the BBC reported that 126 people lost £977,581 lost to this scam in just one year.
Overview of WhatsApp job offers
It’s important to stay vigilant when it comes to new WhatsApp contacts. These scams often come as unrequested job offers that appear too good to be true. These jobs may offer amazing pay, such as £300 per hour, which can be very tempting, but it’s a trap. Once you give out your personal information, the scammers can access your identity and bank account.
Steps of the Scam
- They spam countless random numbers on WhatsApp with job offers for warehouse, remote, or part-time positions. This is a common tactic used by fraudsters.
- They usually offer you a fantastic salary and benefits package, promising to earn roughly £300 per hour for part-time work.
- A common tactic used by job scammers is to request an interview or a brief statement from the applicant to create the illusion of a real company. They will assure the applicant that they have passed the interview with flying colours and can proceed to the next stage.
- They commonly request a copy of your licence, passport, bank details, and National Insurance number.
- Either they will block your contact on WhatsApp entirely or inform you that they will contact you shortly and never get a reply.
Here are a few tell-tale signs to watch out for
There would be many red flags when the scammer contacts you; here are a few tell-tale signs of the scam, but the most important thing is to use your gut feeling; if it is too good to be true, then it is a scam.
- When considering a job offer, it’s important to review the job description. If the job details seem unclear or ambiguous, it may be a red flag that the position is not legitimate.
- Fraudsters often use shady tactics to create a sense of urgency or pressure. They may claim that only a few spots are available or use a deadline to force you into making a decision.
- A lack of a formal interview process is a common red flag. Scammers may only conduct a simple interview or none at all, pretending it’s a real opportunity. It would all be a ruse to get you thinking it’s a real interview.
- Too good to be true offers: if the pay doesn’t fit the job market pay, then it is most likely a scam, so research the company and the job role.
How to deal with the scam.
If you’ve been a scam victim or know someone who has been, there is a way forward. The WhatsApp job scam is no exception; there are people who can help you through the process.
Tell your bank
Report the scam to your bank immediately if you have given your details, and stop any transfers that look suspicious or you don’t recognize.
Block the scammer
Blocking the scammer would stop them from contacting you and asking for more information. Usually, the scammer would send out threats to get you to give up more information or pressure you into doing what they say.
Document Everything
Take screenshots of the conversation; this could be used as evidence to show if needed to your bank or local authorities.
Dealing with scams is becoming more complex as scammers become more crafty on WhatsApp. It is essential to remain vigilant and spread awareness to prevent others from falling victim. There is nothing wrong if you feel like you have been scammed, you can go to Citizens Advice Consumer Service, Victim Support, and your bank for help.
