WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger Scams: A Major Concern for Peruvian Users

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting social networking platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, which is a major concern for users in Peru. According to information from Statista, 86% of Peruvians surveyed between April and June 2023 indicated that they primarily use these platforms as instant messaging applications. This makes them vulnerable to cyber attacks, particularly scams involving social networks.

One specific case reported by El Español involved a tactic used by cybercriminals to spy on the screens of mobile phones through video calls on WhatsApp. Victims were tricked into sharing their screens during these calls, leading to potential theft of account information and bank details.

To protect oneself from falling victim to cybercriminals, it is important to be aware of their methods and tactics. Mario Micucci, a computer security specialist at ESET Latin America, emphasizes the importance of being cautious and vigilant when using any online communication system. He categorizes phishing messages into those offering generous deals, promises of financial gain, and threatening messages designed to create emotional responses in victims.

By being informed about these tactics and taking measures such as detecting unknown numbers in WhatsApp and blocking them, as well as staying informed through cybersecurity news portals like WeLiveSecurity, users can better protect themselves from falling prey to scams. It is essential to be aware of the potential dangers associated with using social networking platforms and take proactive steps to safeguard personal information.