WhatsApp remains one of the most widely used messaging platforms globally, which makes it an attractive target for scammers. It is the most popular messaging app in over 100 countries, having been downloaded over 5 billion times.
Another concern relates to virtual numbers. These are increasingly being used for day-to-day communication provide a flexible, cloud-based alternative to traditional landlines, allowing users to manage calls and texts on existing smartphones, laptops, or tablets without needing a second physical SIM card.
Drawing on first-hand experience supporting businesses that rely on WhatsApp and virtual numbers for day-to-day communication, George Lineker, Co-Founder of YourBusinessNumber, has warned Digital Journal that users are underestimating just how sophisticated these scams have become.
This growing concern is reflected in online behaviour, with searches for “WhatsApp scam” increasing by 212.5% since this time last year and peaking in October 2025, underlining the need for greater vigilance when interacting with others on the platform.
Impersonation scams
“One of the most common tactics we see is impersonation,” Lineker says. “Scammers will pretend to be a friend, family member, or colleague and claim they’ve changed numbers or are dealing with an urgent situation.”
“These messages are designed to create pressure,” he adds. “If you’re made to feel like you need to act immediately, that’s often a sign something isn’t right.”
To avoid falling victim, Lineker advises users to pause and verify the sender’s identity through another channel, such as a phone call or a previously saved number, before responding or sending money.
Prize, job, and giveaway scams
“Another major red flag is unsolicited offers,” Lineker explains. “Messages claiming you’ve won a prize, secured a job, or need to claim a reward are incredibly common on WhatsApp.”
He warns that these scams often push users to click links or share personal information. “If you didn’t enter a competition or apply for a role, treat the message with scepticism,” he says. “Avoid clicking links altogether, and never share personal or financial details via WhatsApp.”
Account takeover and verification code scams
“Any message asking for a WhatsApp verification code should be treated as a serious warning sign,” Lineker says. “Those codes are never meant to be shared, and once a scammer has one, they can take full control of the account.”
He recommends enabling two-step verification and being cautious if someone claims they sent a code by mistake. “Even if the request appears to come from a known contact, users should never share verification codes under any circumstances.”
Business and customer support scams
“Businesses are increasingly being targeted through WhatsApp,” Lineker notes. “Scammers may pose as customers, suppliers, or even internal staff to extract sensitive information.”
“For businesses, one mistake can have a much wider impact,” he explains. “Clear internal rules around verification are essential. Staff should be trained to question unexpected requests, confirm identities internally, and avoid sharing login or authentication details over messaging apps.”
How users can protect themselves
“The most effective defence is slowing down,” Lineker advises. “If a message involves money, personal data, or urgency, take a moment to verify it through another channel.”
He also further recommends enabling two-step verification, keeping the app updated, and reporting suspicious messages. “In many cases, simply pausing before responding is enough to stop a scam in its tracks.”
Why vigilance matters
“WhatsApp scams aren’t disappearing, they’re evolving,” Lineker concludes. “While security features help, awareness is still the strongest protection users have.”
“Understanding how these scams work makes it far easier to spot them early and avoid becoming the next victim.”
