A new scam is drawing the attention of digital security experts by using a feature created precisely to reinforce the privacy of WhatsApp users. Criminals began to exploit single-view photos to initiate contact with victims and subsequently apply threats with the aim of obtaining money. Unlike other frauds, the scheme does not depend on viruses or hacking the device, but on the psychological manipulation of those who receive the message.
Single-view photos become a new scam tool on WhatsApp
A new scam is drawing the attention of digital security experts by using a feature created precisely to reinforce the privacy of WhatsApp users. Criminals began to exploit single-view photos to initiate contact with...
According to warnings published by experts on social media, scammers send single-view images through unknown numbers. Although receiving the photo raises concerns, opening the file does not compromise the cell phone or install any malicious program. The image only serves as a starting point for the criminal to establish contact with the victim.
The choice for the single view feature is strategic. As the photograph disappears shortly after being opened, many people end up accessing the content just to find out what it is about. It is precisely this curiosity that criminals are waiting for to carry out the scam.
Once the image is viewed, the tone of the conversation changes. The sender goes on to claim that the photo was sent by mistake or accuses the victim of having seen content they shouldn't have. Then the threats and attempts at intimidation begin.
Criminals may claim that they will take legal action, spread false information, or cause other problems if the victim does not make an immediate payment. The objective is to provoke fear and emotional pressure so that the person makes a hasty decision and makes a financial transfer without questioning the situation.
Experts explain that this type of fraud uses so-called social engineering, a technique based on manipulating human behavior instead of exploiting technological flaws. The longer the conversation continues, the greater the chances that the scammer will try to convince the victim to send money.
Therefore, the main guideline is to avoid any interaction with messages sent by unknown numbers, especially when they involve unexpected situations or content that arouses curiosity.
If you receive a single view photo from an unknown contact, the recommendation is not to respond to the message and immediately stop any conversation. If there are signs of an attempted scam or extortion, the user must block the number and use WhatsApp's own tools to report the contact.
Experts also warn that threats of this type are often part of the script adopted by criminals to create a climate of urgency. Most of the time, intimidation only serves to pressure the victim into making a payment.
In addition to being wary of suspicious approaches, keeping two-step verification activated, always using the latest version of WhatsApp and limiting the exposure of personal information are measures that help reinforce security and reduce the risk of falling for this type of fraud.
Read Also: WhatsApp: how to stop receiving messages from someone (without blocking)
Source: Noticias ao Minuto - Tech
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