Hackers are increasingly targeting mobile and social media users through deceptive phone calls. Once they gain access to a person’s WhatsApp account, they use it to exploit that user’s contacts.
According to the sources, scammers often pretend to be representatives of courier companies. They tell victims that a parcel has arrived in their name and then ask for the verification code sent to their phone, claiming it is needed for delivery.
Experts warn that the scam becomes effective the moment a user shares the OTP. At that point, the hacker can immediately take control of the victim’s WhatsApp account.
After taking over an account, fraudsters reportedly send messages to the victim’s contacts. They often create fake emergency situations and ask for urgent financial help, making the messages appear trustworthy because they come from a known number.
The method has already caused financial losses for many people. One affected person said scammers used his account to message thousands of contacts, and several people sent money in his name.
Reports suggest that elderly individuals and homemakers are particularly vulnerable to these scams due to limited awareness of digital security practices.
That concern has heightened calls for stronger public awareness. Cybersecurity experts say prevention depends heavily on understanding how these scams begin and how quickly they escalate once an OTP is shared.
Cybersecurity specialists have strongly advised users never to share OTPs or personal information with unknown callers. Authorities also stressed that public awareness remains one of the most important tools in stopping these cybercrimes.
As WhatsApp-related fraud cases continue to grow, the warning is simple: verification codes are private and should never be shared over the phone.
