WhatsApp phishing: IT Dept warns about hackers, issues advisory

Since the start of the pandemic, WhatsApp usage has rocketed globally by more than 40 per cent; and with the increase in its popularity, cybercriminals are increasingly attacking it which is also known as ‘Whatsup phishing.’

In view of this, the State Electronics and Information Technology Department has issued an advisory cautioning citizens regarding WhatsApp phishing.

Hackers target victims via WhatsApp voice call or suspicious link on Facebook, SMS or WhatsApp. By adopting certain precautionary measures, hackers can be kept at bay without uninstalling the app, the department said.

Once a call is received or link is clicked, the device’s WhatsApp gets temporarily defaced.