WhatsApp Teams Up with National Trading Standards to Combat Digital Scams: New Initiatives and Tips for Staying Safe
In an effort to combat the growing menace of digital scams, WhatsApp has joined forces with National Trading Standards (NTS) to raise awareness about the issue and educate users on how to protect themselves. This collaboration is an extension of a campaign initially launched in 2021, aiming to provide users with the necessary tools and knowledge to stay safe online. Additionally, WhatsApp has introduced two new creator partnerships to further amplify this message.
The Growing Threat of Digital Scams
According to recent data from Citizens Advice, 2024 has seen at least one report of a phone scam every day. A separate report from National Trading Standards revealed that one in five adults (20%) believe they are likely to become victims of scams within the next five years. This underscores the urgent need for increased public awareness and proactive measures to counteract scammers.
Despite a decrease in the number of phone scam reports to Citizens Advice in the past year, National Trading Standards cautions that this could be due to fewer people reporting such incidents. This makes it even more crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspected scams to authorities.
WhatsApp’s Multi-Layered Protection
WhatsApp is committed to providing a secure platform for its users. The app offers several layers of protection to help users stay safe:
- Two-Step Verification: This feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password.
- Never Share Your 6-Digit Code: Your 6-digit code is a key to your account. Sharing it can compromise your security.
- Privacy Checkup: Regularly use WhatsApp’s Privacy Checkup tool to ensure your security settings are up-to-date.
Expert Advice and Recommendations
Louise Baxter, Head of the National Trading Standards Scams Team and Friends Against Scams, emphasized the importance of remaining cautious. "Criminals are masters of manipulation, constantly adapting their tactics to exploit our goodwill and desire to help friends and family members in need. These criminals will impersonate loved ones or contact you from an unknown number claiming to be a friend or family member who has lost their phone and been ‘locked out’ of their account. Often, they use emotional manipulation to push you into a hot state, so you are pushed into a position where the criminals try to get you to part ways with your money, making false accusations and using high-pressure tactics to make you feel anxious, vulnerable and panicked. But here’s the truth: you hold the power to stop these criminals in their tracks. Stay vigilant, always check the requests with friends and family, and never feel pressured to share your details or send money quickly.”
Helen Charles, Policy Director at WhatsApp, also highlighted the platform’s commitment to security. "We want to make WhatsApp the safest and most secure place for online communication, which is why we protect your personal conversations with end-to-end encryption. However, there are additional steps we can all take to protect our accounts from criminals. We urge all WhatsApp users to stay alert to potential scams, turn on two-step verification and use our in-app Privacy Checkup tool.”
New Partnerships to Amplify the Message
To further spread awareness, WhatsApp has partnered with "Scambassadors" David Larbi and Holly Morris. These influencers will share the campaign across social media platforms, aiming to reach a broader audience and educate them on the importance of digital security.
How to Report Suspected Scams
If you suspect that you are being targeted by scammers, National Trading Standards encourages you to report the incident to Action Fraud. You can do this by visiting their website at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk or calling 0300 123 2040. For advice about scams, you can contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline at 0808 223 1133 or use their online tool at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/reporting-a-scam/.
Additional Resources
For more information on how to stay safe on WhatsApp, visit the Help Center. Here, you will find detailed guides and tips on maintaining your digital security.
Good to Know Information
Digital scams are not just limited to WhatsApp or phone calls. They can occur through various channels, including emails, social media, and even traditional mail. Scammers often use sophisticated techniques to appear legitimate, making it essential to stay informed and cautious.
One effective way to protect yourself is by educating those around you, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly. Sharing information and resources can help create a community that is better prepared to recognize and avoid scams.
Reviews and Reactions
The general public and experts alike have praised WhatsApp and National Trading Standards for their proactive approach. Many users appreciate the additional security features and the continuous efforts to educate the public. However, some believe that more can be done, such as implementing stricter verification processes and providing real-time alerts for suspicious activities.
In conclusion, WhatsApp’s collaboration with National Trading Standards marks a significant step in the fight against digital scams. By staying informed, utilizing available security features, and reporting suspicious activities, users can play a crucial role in making the digital world a safer place.
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