WhatsApp Wedding Card Scam: How to Not Fall Victim to This New Hack

New Delhi: There is a new cyber scam which has been targeting unsuspecting users with fake wedding invitations. Cybercriminals are using these invitations to click malicious links, which might lead to data theft, hacking, and financial fraud. The new ploy has sent out warning signals about online safety and the need for vigilance.

How the WhatsApp Wedding Card Scam Works

1. Fake Invitations: The scammers use a WhatsApp message that will act like a wedding card, usually from friends, relatives, or acquaintances; such messages often carry phrases such as: *\\”You are invited! Click on this link to view the wedding card.
2. Links for Phishing: There are links that appear authentic but will take the user to some phishing sites. This link may install malware or phishing software on your computer. 3. Data Hacking: The malware will acquire all your sensitive information, like passwords, banking details, and personal files. This may lead to identity theft or unauthorized financial transactions.

Indications of the Scam

• Number Unknown: These could be unknown numbers that are either coming from across the border.
• Poor Grammar and Spellings. Scammers send poorly written messages that sound awkward.
  Hurry-Ups. Pressing messages which include keywords such as “Hurry! RSVP now!” and “Click before the link becomes invalid.”
  Strange Links. Some of them may have peculiar URLs with a whole lot of spelling.

How to Protect Yourself from the WhatsApp Wedding Card Scam

1. Check Sender: Verify the authenticity of the invitation by calling or messaging the sender directly.
2. Do Not Click Link: Avoid clicking on any unsolicited and suspicious link, even if it seems authentic.
3. Update Security Software: Make sure your smartphone is equipped with the latest antivirus software to detect and block malicious activity.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add another layer of security to your accounts, which will not allow the access of anyone except you. 5. Report and Block: If you get such messages, then report the scam to WhatsApp and block the sender.

What to Do If You’ve Clicked the Link

Disconnect your computer from the Internet: Unplug or disable your Wi-Fi or mobile data to stop further spread of damage. Scan Your Device: Use quality antivirus software capable of detecting and removing malware. Change Passwords: Change all your account passwords, especially email and bank account passwords.

• Track Bank Accounts: Keep an eye on any transactions going on your account for unauthorized activity. Inform the bank of the issues found immediately.
  The WhatsApp Wedding Card Scam is a pretty harsh reminder of how cybercriminals exploit trust and emotions to target users. Generally, wedding invitations are considered personal and exciting, making this scam very effective. The more people share such information with friends and family, the lower the chances that others may fall prey to such scams.

Stay alert and guarded online. For more updates regarding cyber security and digital safety, stay tuned to this portal.