Whatsapp Scam Calls On the Rise as Users Report Hoax Calls from International Numbers

Many people throughout the world now use WhatsApp as their primary communication service. WhatsApp scam calls are on the rise as the platform has become a hotbed for commercial communications and spam despite its popularity. Millions of individuals migrated from conventional SMS messaging to WhatsApp because of this, among other factors. Users now face new difficulties as WhatsApp scam calls become more sophisticated.

WhatsApp scam calls and messages from unknown overseas numbers

Be cautious if you've been getting WhatsApp calls and messages from unknown overseas numbers; this could mean you've been a scammers' target. Numerologies beginning with +251 (Ethiopia), +60 (Malaysia), +62 (Indonesia), +254 (Kenya), and +84 (Vietnam) are the most frequently used in these calls.

“While fake calls from international numbers on WhatsApp are not new, there has reportedly been a sudden increase in such calls on WhatsApp in the last few days. WhatsApp users are getting calls from international numbers from different countries like Ethiopia (+251), Malaysia (+60), Indonesia (+62), Kenya (+254), Vietnam (+84) and others. However, it is important to note that these calls may not necessarily originate from these countries. Reason being that WhatsApp calls are made over the internet. These international numbers may reportedly be sold by agencies to scammers in the country. Users are advised not to answer such calls and block these numbers,” says an advisory issued by Cyber Peace Corps.

Is receiving WhatsApp scam calls from foreign numbers a Hoax?

Nowadays, receiving calls from foreign numbers is one of the most widespread hoaxes on WhatsApp. The ISD codes provided show that audio and video calls frequently come from nations like Malaysia, Kenya, and Vietnam. These calls are happening more regularly, and it makes sense that many individuals are worried about how scammers got their phone numbers.

What is the purpose of these WhatsApp scam calls?

The purpose of these calls is unknown, but frequently con artists seek out private information they can use to drain a user's account of funds. Users must be cautious and refrain from sharing personal data during such calls.

“Now the WhatsApp scammers are giving missed Video calls also before calling. Something needs to be done about it,” says one such user who has received WhatsApp scam calls.

Why is the WhatsApp network acting up?

Because WhatsApp uses a VoIP network, users can place free international calls from anywhere. This aspect has made it simpler for scammers to phone unknowing people overseas. Even though most individuals are startled when they receive a call from an unknown number, they shouldn't assume the worst upon answering.

Conclusion

It is essential to understand that just because a call is from an international number does not automatically mean it originated in that nation. Even if they are in the same city as you, some companies sell international numbers for WhatsApp calls. This fact emphasises consumers' need to be cautious whenever they receive calls from alarming numbers, whether domestic or foreign.