3.2 million WhatsApp numbers and user IDs were harvested and put up for sale on the dark web. This data leak opens the door to potential scam attempts.
Safeonweb is sounding the alarm: 3.2 million WhatsApp numbers and user IDs of Belgian users have been collected and put up for sale on a dark web forum.
Selling this confidential data on the dark web inevitably involves risks of scams. On the one hand, some malicious people could engage in smishing, or phishing by SMS. For example, a WhatsApp user could receive a distress message supposedly coming from one of their family members. But, in reality, a scammer is hiding behind this message.
On the other hand, people who get their hands on this data for sale on the dark web could make fraudulent calls, including pretending to be a banking institution or a government entity. The goal of the scammers is of course to extract money or personal data.
In order to avoid any problems, certain actions should be taken. As Safeonweb reminds us, always be wary of messages and calls from unknown sources.
If you are in contact with a suspicious person, never give in to pressure and do not share in no case personal information (as a reminder, a bank will not ask you Never your PIN code or your bank card number by phone). Always take the time to think and analyze a situation.
Also, consider enabling two-factor authentication. This way, even if someone has your password, it will be harder for them to access your WhatsApp account.
If you have been scammed, be sure to contact your bank and call Card Stop directly on 078.170.170.
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