Enable these features to stay ahead of all the scams on whatsapp

To enable two-step verification, open WhatsApp on your primary device and head over to the app settings. Now, tap on ‘Account’ and on the window that appears, you will see an option named “Two-step verification.” Click on it and WhatsApp will now ask you to enter a 6 digit PIN. Once enabled, WhatsApp will regularly ask you to enter the PIN. The app also gives you an option to link an email address, which can be used to reset the PIN in case you forget it.

Block and report unknown numbers

Is some harassing you on WhatsApp or bombarding you with messages claiming to be from your bank or a service you are subscribed to? If your answer is yes, chances are that they might be trying to scam you.

If you come across a suspicious WhatsApp account asking you for your personal information or banking details, block them instantly. When an unknown number messages you, WhatsApp will give you an option to block them and even report it to WhatsApp for suspicious activity.

Only trust Meta Verified businesses

In the last few years, WhatsApp has evolved to be a great communication tool for both personal and business use. With various businesses offering services over WhatsApp, scammers have been preying on unsuspecting users by impersonating legitimate businesses.

If you are conducting business over WhatsApp or buying something from the platform, make sure that the business account you are talking to has a Meta Verified badge. Similar to X (previously Twitter), businesses verified by Meta have a blue tick icon to the right of their name, so if a business account does not have the badge, chances are they might not be legitimate.

Prevent unknown numbers from calling you

Many times, fraudsters may call you over WhatsApp to establish urgency or to gain your trust. If an unknown person calls you on WhatsApp, chances are it is either a spam call or someone trying to scam you. To combat this very issue, WhatsApp has a feature called “Silence unknown callers” that automatically mutes calls from those not in your contact list.

To enable it, open and head over to WhatsApp settings, tap on “Privacy”, scroll down to find an option named “Calls” and click on it. On the screen that appears, you will see an option named “Silence unknown callers”. Enable it and you will no longer get calls from unknown numbers.