WhatsApp Scam uses blurry images to trick users: Don¡¯t fall for this new trap - ¡°This person was seen in your neighbourhood¡ªdo you know them?¡±

WhatsApp scam alert: Blurry photos and emotionally charged messages like "Is this your brother?" and more are being used by a new WhatsApp scam to trick users.

Receivers are prompted to reply out of fear when they get these messages, which frequently originate from unknown numbers and contain blurry images. However, responding to these communications may result in major security lapses, such as the installation of malware or illegal access to private data.

Users must exercise caution because scammers are taking advantage of the sense of urgency and trust that these communications arouse. The first line of defense is to be aware of the strategies used in this fraud.

In the article that follows, we explore the complexities of this fraudulent plan and offer helpful guidance on protecting your data and avoiding being a victim of such deceitful operations.?

What is this WhatsApp scam all about?

The blurry photo scam is catching people off guard by using WhatsApp and other messaging platforms | Credit: Canva

Using something as basic as a blurry photo, a new fraud is making the rounds on WhatsApp and other messaging apps, and it is surprising many. Known as the "Photo Claim Scam," it exploits your empathy and curiosity, according to News18.

According to the article, users get a message from an unidentified number that includes a fuzzy picture and the words, "Is this your brother?" or "Do you know this person? They were spotted in your neighborhood." On the surface, it appears to be a sincere request for assistance. However, that is the point of risk.

Users may unintentionally install a malicious APK file¡ªa type of third-party program that is not from the Play Store¡ªif they download the picture. Once on their phone, it can covertly grant thieves access to anything, including the SMS inbox, UPI, and banking apps. They can use your information to shop online, send money, view OTPs, and more. It may not even occur to users until it is too late.

This is not the first time it has occurred. Fraudsters delivered phony wedding invites bundled with identical APK files just a year ago. To convince people to let their defenses down, they are now employing emotional hooks.

What is this technique called?

Cybercriminals continually find new ways to exploit users through dangerous links, OTP scams, and even "digital arrests." | Credit: WhatsApp

Steganography, a technique where malicious code is encoded within image files, is how this fraud works.

Least Significant Bit (LSB) steganography is a popular type of steganography that conceals data in a media file's least significant bit. Three bytes of data, representing the colors red, green, and blue, usually make up an image.

The fourth byte, sometimes referred to as the "alpha" channel, is frequently where the concealed data is inserted.

The malware is placed on the victim's device automatically when they open the compromised image. After that, this software can obtain private data, including passwords and banking details.

In certain instances, it even permits remote device access. Scammers may phone the victim to coerce them into opening the file if they initially reject the image.

How to be safe from these scams?

• Never open a link, picture, or video that is provided to you via WhatsApp from an unknown number.
• In the WhatsApp settings, turn off the auto-download function.
• Don't open big or dubious files, especially if they come from unidentified sources.
• Untrustworthy calls and communications should be ignored and blocked.
• Inform people about these frauds to keep them vigilant.
• Use the official Cybercrime portal to report any incidents: https://cybercrime.gov.in

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