The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a public warning about a new wave of fraudulent messages targeting WhatsApp users in the country.
The authority cautioned users to be on high alert for deceptive messages sent from local or international numbers that pretend to be WhatsApp’s official account and display its logo.
According to PTA, these scam messages often contain malicious URL links and misleading claims, such as violations of WhatsApp rules or requests for account verification. The messages are not from WhatsApp, and the links may lead to data theft or complete compromise of the user’s WhatsApp account.
Users are advised not to click on any suspicious links or respond to such messages. Instead, PTA recommends blocking the sender immediately and reporting the contact directly to WhatsApp. This can be done through official guidance available on WhatsApp’s help center for Android and iOS devices.
The authority emphasized that while the messages appear authentic, they are crafted to manipulate users into compromising their digital security. PTA stressed that WhatsApp does not initiate such communications and users should treat unsolicited requests for account action with skepticism.
PTA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting digital communications and urged the public to stay cautious and report any suspicious activity. The authority also encouraged citizens to regularly update their apps and activate two-step verification on WhatsApp to enhance account security.
