Pakistan

FIA Warns Public About Rising WhatsApp and Facebook Scams as Accounts Get Hacked

ISLAMABAD:In recent weeks, several incidents have surfaced where people received messages from the WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger accounts of their acquaintances, asking for money after initial pleasantries. The messages often promise quick repayment, but sometimes, even small amounts are requested, raising suspicions of fraud. These types of scams have led to a growing number of hacked accounts and financial exploitation.

One such incident involved former Justice Wajihuddin Ahmed, whose WhatsApp account was hacked and used to demand money. After investigation, it was revealed that the account had been compromised. In another case, a man who had moved to Europe for work discovered that multiple fake Facebook accounts using his name were messaging his family members, asking for money. Upon contacting him, his family learned that he had not been using Facebook for months and was unaware of the fraudulent activities.

These kinds of scams are becoming more common on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. Users often post warnings about hacked accounts, urging others not to respond to any financial requests coming from such accounts.

In light of the increasing number of these incidents, the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing has issued a public warning. They have cautioned people against fraudsters who are now impersonating official organizations like the Higher Education Commission (HEC), the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), and the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC). These scammers are tricking individuals into providing confirmation codes for degree verification requests on WhatsApp, which could lead to the victim’s account being hacked.

According to FIA, once an account is hacked, scammers use it to deceive the victim’s contacts into sending money. The FIA has strongly advised the public not to share verification codes with anyone and to report any suspicious messages or calls to their Cyber Crime Wing immediately.

Additionally, the FIA has recommended that WhatsApp users enable two-factor authentication to further protect their accounts from unauthorized access and potential hacking.

As these scams continue to rise, it’s crucial for users to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited requests for money or personal information, especially from unknown or compromised accounts.

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