WhatsApp users under continuous threat: Never share unknown links or media files
In the digital age, WhatsApp, the most widely used messaging app in Germany, has become a popular platform for communication but also a target for scammers.
The ease of use of WhatsApp makes it attractive to cybercriminals, who are increasingly posing as employees of banks, law firms, or crypto platforms to trick unsuspecting users. A new scam involves sending heartwrenching messages to lure victims into revealing sensitive information. Careless clicks or forwarding of such data can lead to identity theft, a grave concern that the Federal Ministry of the Interior warns against.
The ministry advises ID copies should only be handed over as a "paper copy to authorized persons or transmitted via encrypted, protected communication connections." The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) in Germany has promoted the use of secure communication channels instead of less secure options like WhatsApp. They urge consistent use of protected channels, especially for security-relevant communication within government offices.
Consumer advocates and the Brandenburg Consumer Center are also urging against sending ID photos via WhatsApp. This advice is echoed by Joshua Jahn, press spokesman for the VZB, who advises against sending personal data or ID copies via WhatsApp or phone.
Unfortunately, identity theft can have serious consequences. Sensitive information collected by scammers can be used to open illegal accounts or take out loans in someone's name. Anyone who has become a victim of identity theft should notify the police, report the incident, contact banks and payment service providers, and inform the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) about the identity theft.
WhatsApp itself is not without its own security concerns. A newly discovered vulnerability in the app has recently been made public, posing additional risks to users. However, WhatsApp does have a hidden privacy feature that protects your privacy from AI.
In other news, millions of people use WhatsApp daily for communication. But starting from September, passengers in 14 federal states will have to follow new rules during airport control. Meanwhile, the government has decided on advance payments for millions of civil servants, and a famous sausage has been recalled at Kaufland, Edeka, and Lidl, due to a risk of acute kidney failure. Lastly, it's worth noting that some users may not be able to use WhatsApp after 2025.
As we navigate this digital world, it's crucial to remain vigilant and prioritise security, especially when it comes to sensitive information like ID copies and personal data.
