Suspicious Messages from Instant Messaging Platforms
📱 Beware of Scams on Messaging Apps and SMS
Cybercriminals are increasingly turning to instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger, and even traditional SMS to target users with scams and phishing attempts. These platforms are attractive to scammers because people tend to trust messages from known contacts, and many users aren’t as cautious on messaging apps as they are with emails.
These attacks are often fast, personal, and convincing, making them a growing threat in both personal and professional environments.
🕵️ How These Scams Work
Scammers use a variety of tactics to trick users into revealing sensitive information, sending money, or clicking malicious links. Here’s how they do it:
Impersonation Scams
Attackers may pretend to be someone you know—a friend, colleague, or even your boss—claiming they’ve lost access to something and urgently need your help.
Support or Service Spoofs
Messages appear to come from well-known companies or services (e.g., banks, mobile carriers, or tech support), asking you to "verify your account" or "confirm a charge."
Gift Card & Money Requests
A common tactic is asking victims to purchase gift cards and send the codes, claiming it’s for a last-minute gift or company expense.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Hijacking
You may receive a message asking for a login code “by mistake” or “urgently.” In reality, the attacker is trying to hijack your account by stealing the code sent to your phone.
Malicious Links and Attachments
Some messages contain shortened or disguised URLs that lead to phishing sites or malware downloads. Others may contain unexpected attachments that install spyware or ransomware.
🚩 Warning Signs to Watch For
Be cautious if a message contains any of the following:
Urgent or emotional language ("I need your help now!", "Please respond immediately", "I’m in danger")
Requests for sensitive data (login credentials, account numbers, 2FA codes, personal identification)
Unexpected attachments or links—especially those ending in unfamiliar file extensions
Spelling or grammatical errors that seem uncharacteristic of the supposed sender
Out-of-character behavior from someone you know (e.g., an unusual tone or odd request)
Even messages that seem friendly or routine can be social engineering attempts meant to lower your guard.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
To avoid falling victim to these types of scams, follow these best practices:
1. Don’t Trust the Message Alone: Even if a message appears to come from someone you know, verify the identity through another method—such as a direct call, voice note, or in-person check.
2. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: If a link seems out of place or unexpected, don’t click it. Instead, preview the link (long-press it on mobile or hover on desktop) or visit the website directly through your browser.
3. Never Share Verification Codes: No legitimate contact will ask for your one-time password (OTP) or 2FA code. Never share these with anyone, no matter how urgent the request sounds.
4. Use App Security Settings: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your messaging apps if supported.
Set messages to disappear after a certain time for added privacy (where available).
Be wary of messages from unknown numbers and report suspicious activity.
5. Educate Those Around You: Scammers often target vulnerable users, including family members, coworkers, or less tech-savvy individuals. Spread awareness so others can spot the signs and stay safe.
🤔 Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, it probably is. Your instincts are a powerful first line of defense. Whether the message is asking for money, sharing a strange link, or just doesn’t sound quite right—pause, verify, and think before you act.
📢 Final Thought
As messaging apps continue to replace email and phone calls, scammers are adapting fast. By staying alert, verifying all suspicious messages, and being cautious with personal information, you can avoid falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated attacks.