WhatsApp Security and Common Scams You Need to Know in 2025

In 2025, WhatsApp continues to dominate global communication with over 2.7 billion active users. While it’s convenient, free, and encrypted — it’s not immune to cyber threats. Whether you’re an individual or a business, understanding how to stay secure on WhatsApp is more important than ever.

Let’s dive into the latest WhatsApp scams, how they work, and the steps you can take to stay safe. 🚨

🛡️ Why WhatsApp Security Matters

Despite WhatsApp using end-to-end encryption, hackers and social engineers still find ways to manipulate users through:

• Social engineering
• SIM swapping
• Malware-laced APKs
• Phishing links
• QR code scams

You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert — just a few minutes of awareness can protect you from major loss.

⚠️ Top WhatsApp Scams in 2025

1. 6-Digit Verification Code Scam

Attackers trick users into revealing their WhatsApp verification code via fake messages. Once they get the code, they can hijack your account.

How it works:

• You get a real code from WhatsApp.
• A “friend” (whose account is already hacked) messages you asking, “Can you send me the code you just received?”
• You lose access once you give them the code.

🛡 Protection Tip: Never share your WhatsApp code with anyone — even close friends.

2. WhatsApp Gold / Premium Feature Scam

Fake messages claim that you can upgrade to WhatsApp Gold or WhatsApp Pro for extra features.

These usually include:

• Download links to infected APKs
• Phishing pages
• Hidden malware

🛡 Protection Tip: WhatsApp doesn’t offer premium versions. Only download from the official Play Store or App Store.

3. Job Offer / Gift Scams

Cybercriminals target users with fake messages offering:

• Work-from-home jobs
• Online investment schemes
• Free giveaways from big brands like “Pepsi”, “Nike”, or “Shein”

These scams often redirect to phishing pages to steal personal info or payment data.

🛡 Protection Tip: Avoid clicking suspicious shortened URLs like bit.ly or tinyurl on WhatsApp.

4. QR Code Hijacking

If someone sends you a QR code and tells you to scan it to activate a feature or claim a prize — don’t.

Attackers can use QR codes to:

• Link your WhatsApp Web to their system
• Hijack sessions
• Access private conversations

🛡 Protection Tip: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources and never use someone else’s device to log into WhatsApp Web.

5. Fake Support / Tech Help

Scammers pose as WhatsApp support and message users asking for account credentials to “fix a problem.”

🛡 Protection Tip: WhatsApp will never ask you for your verification code or password via chat.

🔐 Essential WhatsApp Security Practices (2025 Edition)

✅ Enable Two-Step Verification
Go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification → Enable.
This adds a PIN that only you know.

✅ Keep Your App Updated
Many security flaws are fixed in updates. Use auto-update on Android/iOS.

✅ Review Linked Devices Regularly
Settings → Linked Devices → Remove unknown sessions immediately.

✅ Block and Report Suspicious Contacts
If someone sends you phishing links or scams, block and report them to WhatsApp.

✅ Don’t Join Random Groups
Hackers use malicious groups to spread malware or collect data.

📣 Final Thoughts

WhatsApp is a powerful tool — but with power comes responsibility. Cybercriminals are getting smarter, and their scams are becoming harder to detect. By staying informed and following basic security hygiene, you can keep your chats, data, and identity safe.

🔍 Stay updated with more security tips by following LearnWithAQ.
📲 Share this article with your family and friends — it might just save someone from falling into a scam.