However, as the user opens the web page and performs all the tasks, the page collects vital information concerning the user including their IP address, name of the device and other personal details such as name, age, address etc. Thereafter, it makes the user do certain tasks like sending the link to five other WhatsApp users in exchange for assuring their prize, which usually is an expensive gift. As soon as a user opens the link, a web-based interface lures them by promising an assured gift or informing them about the prize of a giveaway. The fraud involves the circulation of a WhatsApp link with the aforementioned address.

The scam, named '' or '' is being circulated by WhatsApp users themselves. Users are advised to be aware of such WhatsApp scams.Ī new WhatsApp scam that has arisen on the platform in recent days takes advantage of working external links on the platform. Additionally, scammers are also sending text messages to WhatsApp users and initiating conversations in a bid to extract vital information.

However, the ability to send functional external links on WhatsApp is reportedly being exploited by scammers on the platform, especially during the holidays and New Year season, when users are more active on the instant messaging platform. The platform time and again provides several features that make the overall messaging experience within it easy and intuitive.

Amongst social media giants, WhatsApp perhaps has the biggest subscribership to claim with a billion users.

Reporting whatsapp scams