How WhatsApp Accounts are Targeted by Cybercriminals Through ‘Son in Trouble’ Scams: How to Protect Yourself”.

In recent years, cybercriminals have been using the son in trouble scam to target unsuspecting victims. The scam typically begins with a message asking for money after claiming to have lost their cell phone. However, the attackers behind this scam are not just after money – they also aim to gain access to the victim’s WhatsApp account.

According to a study by Kaspersky, WhatsApp is a prime target for cybercriminals due to its popularity and the fact that having control of an account provides access to a wide network of contacts. Attackers use this credibility to request money, personal data, or even photos that can be used for extortion.

Once attackers have control of a WhatsApp account, they can use it to contact the victim’s contacts and request money or personal information. They may even use voice synthesizers to imitate the victim’s voice in audio messages. By gaining access to the victim’s account, attackers can also access graphic material and videos that can be used for coercion.

WhatsApp has implemented various security measures to prevent unauthorized access, including two-factor verification. However, attackers may try to trick victims into giving them temporary codes sent by WhatsApp in order to take control of the account. This highlights the importance of being cautious with sharing sensitive information and verifying requests for authentication codes.

To protect against these attacks, experts recommend adopting strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, staying informed about cybersecurity threats, and being cautious when sharing sensitive information online. By taking these precautions and remaining vigilant against cyber threats like son in distress scams, individuals can reduce their risk of falling victim to these types of attacks