We can receive false links through many applications that we use daily on the Internet, but WhatsApp is undoubtedly one of the most frequent. Hackers use this messaging application to steal passwords, personal data, or sneak in a virus. To do this, they can use multiple techniques, but a very common one is to send a false link so that the victim clicks or downloads something. We are going to tell you what you should look for detect fake links by WhatsApp.
Keep in mind that you are not necessarily going to receive a fraudulent link by a stranger, since even any of your contacts can send it. You could receive a fake link from a friend or family member. This occurs because they have previously been attacked and they do not consciously send it.
the message is key
What you should do is parse the message accompanying that link. This is key, since they are practically always going to send something along with the false link. It is a way to capture the attention of the victim to invite them to end up entering that page and there and steal data, passwords or whatever objective they have.
Surely you notice something strange. You must look very well at that message and see strange things. If a relative or friend sent it to you, you probably know more or less how to write, what words to use, etc. You will notice that something does not add up. Typically, these types of fake links are accompanied by messages like “Look at this amazing discount!”, “Are you the one in this photo?” and the like. They use phrases that are likely to invite clicking.
However, it is quite common that these messages may have certain expression or spelling errors or that you even notice that they are translated. Sometimes these campaigns are launched in different countries and what they do is translate the text in multiple languages and a native person might notice something is off.
protect your safety
As you see, the common sense and avoiding making mistakes is the most important thing. It is key that you detect messages that may be false, in addition to the link, so as not to compromise your security when using WhatsApp. But it is also convenient to take into account other general recommendations to further enhance protection.
Something you should always do is have All updated correctly. Avoid having the WhatsApp application without updating. You should also successfully update the operating system. If there are vulnerabilities, you could get in trouble if cybercriminals exploit those flaws.
Another factor to take into account is the importance of having a good anti virus. Security programs will help you detect threats. If you click on a fake link that comes to you via WhatsApp, you could mistakenly download a file that contains malware and could affect your device. An antivirus will detect it and remove it.
Therefore, as you can see, it is possible to detect false messages that come to you through WhatsApp. It is essential that you also take measures to increase security and not have problems in the event that, by mistake, you click on a link that you should not and a virus sneaks in or tries to steal your passwords. In addition, you should know how to act in case they send a false link.
