Gauteng JOC warns of new WhatsApp scam targeting verification codes

The Gauteng Provincial Joint Operations Centre (JOC), a Gauteng Police Board initiative, has issued an urgent public warning about a new WhatsApp scam deceiving users into handing over their security verification codes.

According to the JOC, scammers impersonate trusted contacts or friends on WhatsApp, claiming to be taking part in an “ambassador course”.

They ask the victim to assist by forwarding a code sent via SMS – a code that is actually the victim’s own WhatsApp verification code.

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Once obtained, fraudsters use this code to take over the victim’s WhatsApp account.

With full control, they impersonate the victim and send messages to the person’s contacts, often requesting money or personal information.

How to protect your WhatsApp account:

The Gauteng Provincial JOC urges the public to stay alert and follow these safety steps:

• Never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even if the message appears to come from someone you know;
• Enable two-step verification in your WhatsApp settings for extra protection;
• Verify unusual messages by calling the person directly on a regular phone call;
• Use number-identification tools like Truecaller or search the number on Google. Regularly update your WhatsApp privacy settings to control who can contact you;
• Report suspicious activity to WhatsApp and your local police station.

What to do if your WhatsApp account was hacked:

If you suspect your account was compromised, the JOC recommends acting immediately.

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• Log out of all WhatsApp sessions and reinstall the app to initiate a new verification process;
• Enter the new SMS verification code to regain access to your account;
• Activate two-step verification to secure your account from further breaches;
• Block and report the scam number that contacted you;
• Notify your contacts about the breach and advise them not to engage with suspicious messages from your number.

Authorities urge people to remain digitally vigilant and not share personal or security-related information online, regardless of how familiar or trustworthy the source might seem.

For the latest updates on digital safety, follow official communications from the Gauteng Provincial Joint Operations Centre.