NEW DELHI: WhatsApp has requested customers to dam and report suspicious calls and messages from unknown worldwide or home telephone numbers, the advisory coming at a time when quite a few subscribers of the favored messaging app have been getting unsolicited calls from numerous nations.
“Blocking and reporting suspicious messages/ calls is an important step to effectively combat scams and when users receive calls from unknown international or domestic phone numbers, WhatsApp provides a convenient way to block and report suspicious accounts,” the corporate mentioned in a press release.
It mentioned that customers ought to report the accounts to WhatsApp in order that the corporate can take the required motion in opposition to them and ban them from the platform. “Users can also control who sees their personal details and their online presence by using our privacy controls. Keeping your personal details visible to only your contacts can help safeguard your account against bad actors.”
The corporate mentioned that reporting the suspicious messages is a crucial step to successfully fight scams. “If the message is from an unknown person asking for unusual information or with an odd request, contact the organisation or person directly for clarification and, in the meantime, avoid sending any money or sharing any personal information. Unlike traditional SMS or other platforms, WhatsApp gives you the option to block and report the sender right away to break the cycle of scams. Users may also receive calls from unknown international or domestic phone numbers, do not answer these calls and block and report such accounts.”
The corporate mentioned that it’s elevating consciousness about its product options and instruments via a security marketing campaign that may assist customers keep shielded from on-line scams and frauds. “While scammers can be convincing and persistent, it is important for consumers to remain vigilant.”
It mentioned that customers shouldn’t share their private info with anybody. “We transact within the online world daily and thus protecting our personal information and privacy is essential when using the internet. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your address, phone number, passwords, credit/ debit card numbers, and bank account information.”
Additionally, it suggested that customers ought to assume earlier than they act to remain protected. “Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, tricking unsuspecting individuals into giving up sensitive information. They also use impersonation (pretending to a person or organisation you would trust) and often send fake phishing links. When you receive a text or request that looks suspicious, don’t act right away. Stop and take five before you respond, think if this an unusual request, and avoid clicking suspicious, unverified links,” the corporate mentioned.