Apple has issued an urgent security alert to millions of iPhone users across the UK, warning of a sophisticated new scam circulating on the popular messaging platform WhatsApp.
The tech giant is urging all users to be extremely vigilant after cybersecurity experts identified a dangerous new method criminals are using to hijack personal accounts and steal sensitive data.
How The Scam Operates
The attack begins with a seemingly innocent WhatsApp message, often from an unknown number. The sender will claim to be a friend or family member in distress, stating they are "locked out of their account" and need a verification code sent to your number to regain access.
In reality, this is a devious social engineering trap. The code they request is the six-digit PIN sent by WhatsApp to activate your account on a new device. Handing over this code grants the scammer complete control over your WhatsApp, potentially locking you out permanently.
Why This Threat Is So Severe
Once attackers gain access, the consequences can be devastating:
- Identity Theft: Scammers can impersonate you to contacts in your phone.
- Financial Fraud: They can target your friends and family with pleas for emergency money.
- Data Breach: They gain access to your entire chat history, including photos and sensitive information.
- Further Exploitation: Your compromised account can be used to spread the scam to others in your contact list.
How To Protect Yourself Immediately
Protecting yourself from this scam is straightforward but crucial. Follow these steps:
- Never Share Codes: WhatsApp or Meta will NEVER call or message you to ask for a verification code.
- Enable Two-Step Verification: This adds an essential extra layer of security to your account. Find it in WhatsApp Settings > Account > Two-step verification.
- Verify Unexpected Messages: If a contact messages you with a strange request, call them directly on a known number to confirm it's really them.
- Update Your iOS: Ensure your iPhone's software is always up to date to benefit from the latest security patches from Apple.
If you suspect you have already fallen victim to this scam, you must act fast. Open WhatsApp, go to Settings > Linked Devices and log out of any devices you do not recognise. You should then contact WhatsApp directly to help secure your account.
