![\"London,](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/0_WhatsApp-Snapchat-Skype-and-other-cellphone-Apps-on-iPhone-screen.jpg\")
A new privacy tool will be introduced on the app(Image: stockcam via Getty Images)<\/p>\nCriminals are trying to gain unauthorised access to victims\u2019 WhatsApp accounts, leading to impersonation and further fraudulent activityA new privacy tool will be introduced on the app(Image: stockcam via Getty Images)<\/p>\n
West Midlands Police has issued a warning about a rising WhatsApp scam affecting people in the region.<\/p>\n
Criminals are trying to gain unauthorised access to victims\u2019 WhatsApp accounts, leading to impersonation and fraud.<\/p>\n
WhatsApp takeover scams involve fraudsters tricking people into sharing their six-digit verification code.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: Walsall brothel busted as police arrest 20 in organised crime operation<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n READ MORE: Security in place 24\/ 7 after travellers move onto University of Birmingham land<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Once they have this code, they can log into the account, locking out the real owner, and use the compromised account to deceive others for personal gain.<\/p>\n The scammer will start by providing your phone number to WhatsApp, auto generating a verification code that will be sent directly to your phone.<\/p>\n The criminal will then call or message you, often appearing as a known contact.<\/p>\n They will then often tell you that you are invited to an online meeting or make up another reason to convince you to share the code, enabling the criminal immediate and full access to the account.<\/p>\n This will cause a loss of all access to the account including any messages, media, files and contact lists.<\/p>\n It allows the fraudster to pose as the victim, targeting the victim\u2019s friends and family often making requests for money or personal information.<\/p>\n WMP’s six things on how to stay safe and secure your account:<\/strong><\/p>\n If you\u2019ve been targeted, contact your bank immediately to cancel cards and prevent financial loss.<\/p>\n WhatsApp has special advice on how to protect yourself from suspicious messages and scams<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n