WhatsApp warns you will soon need a special PIN to message some users or face being cast out – and fans ‘can’t wait’
WHATSAPP is plotting a major overhaul that will require users to use PINs to message new contacts.
The popular messaging app is constantly a target from unscrupulous fraudsters looking to make a quick buck out of unsuspecting people.
So-called “Hi mum, Hi dad” scams are among the most prevalent but crooks are constantly trying new tricks.
It seems WhatsApp is taking the matter serious with tough measures designed to keep cyber criminals out.
We recently learnt that a new button could be on the way to block unknown accounts if they send too many messages.
Now, the Meta-owned platform is exploring another option.
Leaked screenshots revealed by WABetaInfo show an advanced user and PIN option.
The username would be swapped out for people’s phone numbers in a bid to keep the latter private.
But on top of that, you might require a PIN to message people – but fear not, you won’t need a PIN to chat to your existing friends.
The idea is designed to stop any Tom, Dick and Harry from messaging you out of the blue if they obtain your username.
Essentially, this should make it a lot harder for scammers on the prowl.
WhatsApp fans fed up with cyber criminals reacted saying: “Can’t wait for this.”
Another commented: “We all are waiting for this feature!!”
Users would have to set up the PIN themselves and issue it to those they wish to speak with.
Fortunately, you only have to enter the PIN once.
How to protect yourself from scams
BY keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid getting caught up in a scam:
- Firstly, remember that if something seems too good to be true, it normally is.
- Check brands are “verified” on Facebook and Twitter pages – this means the company will have a blue tick on its profile.
- Look for grammatical and spelling errors; fraudsters are notoriously bad at writing proper English. If you receive a message from a “friend” informing you of a freebie, consider whether it’s written in your friend’s normal style.
- If you’re invited to click on a URL, hover over the link to see the address it will take you to – does it look genuine?
- To be on the really safe side, don’t click on unsolicited links in messages, even if they appear to come from a trusted contact.
- Be careful when opening email attachments too. Fraudsters are increasingly attaching files, usually PDFs or spreadsheets, which contain dangerous malware.
- If you receive a suspicious message then report it to the company, block the sender and delete it.
- If you think you’ve fallen for a scam, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use its online fraud reporting tool.
It’s not clear when WhatsApp plans to launch the feature as it has only been spotted by early beta testers for now.
And the setting is optional too, so whenever it does land, users will need to switch it on first.
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