recently launched the
Context Card feature
for groups. The purpose of this feature is to provide necessary information to users before they decide to join a group. The feature will essentially help them to safeguard from
WhatsApp group scams
being reported in the media.
“This is particularly helpful if you just met someone or a group of people, and haven’t yet saved them in your contacts – or it can help confirm whether or not it’s a group you know or want to be in,” WhatsApp said.
This feature can help users stay safe from WhatsApp group scams.
What are WhatsApp group scams and how hackers target people
WhatsApp users have reportedly been targeted with a scam wherein fraudsters fool people into joining a group chat, potentially causing financial loss for their friends and family. To convince users, the scammers use a fake audio call, fake profile picture and display name.
They provide victims with seemingly insightful stock market tips, creating a facade of legitimacy. The potential victim is then added to a group of other fraudsters who convince the victim into believing the positives of the offered deal. Encouraged by these interactions, the victim, like many others, feels confident. The large number of participants reinforces the illusion of credibility.
Once the victim is hooked, the fraudsters introduce a specific "share trading account" and software, which in reality is designed to
manipulate results
, displaying fake profits that make victims believe their investments are generating significant returns. Once the victim believes the lies, a sum of money is asked to be transferred. Once done, the scammers flee with the money, causing
monetary loss
.
With the “context card” in WhatsApp appearing when you are added in a group, you get necessary information such as added you, group creator, date and the purpose of the group. This information will help users decide if the group is relevant and should they choose to join or leave.
English (US) ·