Malaysia

MCMC warns of scam involving takeover of WhatsApp accounts

Do not give out 6-digit verification code to any other party, says commission

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 21 Jan 2021 12:19PM

MCMC warns of scam involving takeover of WhatsApp accounts
The MCMC says perpetrators are using various tricks to deceive users into sharing their six-digit verification code from WhatsApp. – Pixabay pic, January 21, 2021

PUTRAJAYA – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) today advised the public to be wary of fraudulent tactics aimed at taking over users’ WhatsApp accounts.

It said in a statement today perpetrators are using various tricks to deceive users into sharing their six-digit verification code from WhatsApp.

“The verification code is generally accepted by users for verification purposes when there is an attempt to change the phone number associated with a WhatsApp account.

“Users who are deceived into sharing the verification code can cause their WhatsApp account to be taken over by a scammer,” it said.

The MCMC also urged users to be wary of WhatsApp six-digit verification code requests from friends or family members, or even others claiming to be WhatsApp employees, as well as other parties, including the authorities.

“Users are reminded not to share WhatsApp’s six-digit verification code to any party at all.”

MCMC said users who have fallen victims to such tactics are advised to follow the steps stated here to recover their hacked WhatsApp account. 

It also advised users to lodge a police report on the matter should attempts occur.

Reports can also be made to MCMC’s complaints portal, via email [email protected] or at WhatsApp at 016-220 6262. – Bernama, January 21, 2021

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