{"id":59982,"date":"2025-10-21T18:00:13","date_gmt":"2025-10-21T16:00:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.apfelpatient.de\/?p=59982"},"modified":"2025-10-21T18:01:10","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T16:01:10","slug":"whatsapp-warns-of-fraud-new-protection-feature-activated","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.apfelpatient.de\/en\/news\/whatsapp-warnt-vor-betrug-neue-schutzfunktion-aktiv","title":{"rendered":"WhatsApp warns of fraud: New protection feature active"},"content":{"rendered":"

Digital fraud schemes are constantly evolving \u2013 and many of these attacks are now shifting directly to messaging apps. WhatsApp is particularly frequently affected. With over two billion active accounts worldwide, the service has long been a favorite target for cybercriminals. WhatsApp is currently warning about a method in which fraudsters deliberately attempt to gain access to sensitive information via screen sharing during video calls. The scam isn't new, but it's becoming increasingly sophisticated. Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, has now introduced a protection feature that addresses precisely this issue.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

WhatsApp is no longer just used for private chats. Support requests, appointment scheduling, or queries with companies often take place directly within the app. This is precisely what fraudsters exploit. They pose as customer service representatives from banks, airlines, or large companies and contact people who publicly request help online. The goal is to force screen sharing \u2013 often under the pretext of helping with problem solving. This gives the perpetrators access to confidential data, confirmation codes, or login credentials. WhatsApp is now responding with technical measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

New protection feature for WhatsApp video calls<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

WhatsApp will now display a warning when attempting to share the screen with an unknown contact during a video call. This is intended to prevent users from inadvertently disclosing confidential information. The feature is intended to be particularly helpful when scammers attempt to exert pressure or create the impression of official support. Meta explicitly points out the risk that sensitive information such as bank details or verification codes could be inadvertently recorded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The new warning appears at the exact moment screen sharing is about to be activated. This minimizes the risk of acting unconsciously in a stressful situation. The notification is intended to help you reconsider the situation\u2014especially in cases where the contact is unknown or has unusual requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is how the fraudsters operate<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The perpetrators often create deceptively real profiles and Facebook pages that look like official support accounts. They follow companies' official social media accounts and monitor comments. As soon as a user publicly posts about a problem\u2014for example, with a bank or airline\u2014they are targeted. The message appears friendly and professional, often includes an offer of support, and quickly leads to a request for screen sharing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If this permission is granted, the fraudsters can read what data is entered \u2013 for example, when logging into a bank account. Even if passwords are hidden, usernames, email addresses, or other data can be captured, which can later be used to change passwords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Particularly dangerous:<\/strong> Many services send a one-time confirmation code via text message or app. This is often displayed directly on the screen \u2013 and can be read by fraudsters in real time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Facebook Messenger is also monitored<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In parallel with the WhatsApp update, Meta is testing enhanced fraud detection in Facebook Messenger. This primarily targets unsolicited messages\u2014such as dubious job offers or contact from unknown profiles. The system recognizes certain phrases or patterns and displays warnings. Users are then given the opportunity to send their recent messages for review by an AI. If a fraud attempt is detected, it provides information about typical scams and suggestions for further action\u2014for example, by blocking or reporting the contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Particularly older people in the sights<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In many cases, fraudsters specifically target older people. According to Meta, seniors are significantly overrepresented in the statistics of fraud victims. This is due, among other things, to the fact that they are less likely to be suspicious of professional-looking profiles and more often rely on outside help. Therefore, Meta emphasizes the importance of education \u2013 even within the family environment. Those who are digitally savvy can help by educating less tech-savvy relatives or acquaintances and pointing out security features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n