How a simple text could cost you your WhatsApp account: Viral video warns of dangerous scam

In the era of digital currencies and transactions, mobile phones are the most important tool to possess. These small devices carry our entire world, from our bank accounts to personal information. Recently, a viral video on Instagram shared by tech journalist Rajiv Makhni revealed a new WhatsApp scam spreading fast across the country.
As the journalist details in the video, the scam begins with the person receiving a message from a known number informing that they have mistakenly sent you a 6-digit code via SMS. Since it's a friend or relative, people tend to give the code and this leads to their entire WhatsApp account being hacked. The 6-digit code is a verification code from WhatsApp that you end up sharing. Additionally, the person messaging you is not your known but rather the hacker who has hacked that account as well.
Social media reaction to the scam

Under Makhni's video, actress Sangeeta Bijlani thanked him for informing people of this scam with the comment: "Omggg. Thanks for this info Rajiv." Many others in the comment section explained how they had been victims of a similar scam, writing, "I had fallen prey few months back..They request for money from your account. One or my friend even sent to hacker Rs 5000, thinking I asked for it" and "Yes.. recently happened with my mom"
Other instances of similar WhatsApp scams
In February, there was a rise of such WhatsApp scams in Chennai. As per a report by The Hindu, Group-I officers and VVIPs had been receiving calls and messages for a 6-digit code and once they shared it, their accounts were being hacked and their friends and family were now being sent similar messages and also being asked for some form of financial help online.
Greater Chennai City Police Commissioner A.Arun had advised, “WhatsApp will never send an activation code to anyone other than the account owner. Do not share the 6-digit WhatsApp activation code that you receive on your phone with anyone. If you receive a call from an unknown or suspicious number, immediately reject the call or block the number. Be cautious when receiving calls from unknown individuals. Verify identities and never share personal or financial information.” He also advised victims of the scam to report such activities to the Cybercrime helpline number immediately.
Steps to prevent WhatsApp scams
There are various steps to create safety barriers on your WhatsApp. These include setting a 2-step authentication process and activating features like "silence unknown callers" which help filter out spam and scam calls. Also, avoid clicking on any links and merging calls with unknown people. However, the most important point to be remembered is to avoid sharing any kind of personal information on the app as it is of primary use to scammers and hackers.