The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Tuesday warned Kenyans against new tricks used by scammers to manipulate gullible WhatsApp users.
According to DCI, the scammers use a technique known as phishing to gain access to native individuals' mobile and personal details without authorization.
Detectives noted that scammers often lure victims through fake job message offers which they mostly send in the form of WFH (Work From Home) propositions.
"Once you respond, the scammer tells you it is a simple job and all you have is to complete a few tasks. This may come with a financial incentive or bait," DCI noted in a statement.
According to DCI, tasks are then forwarded to the victim after which they are asked to take a screenshot once they complete the assignment.
"The scam moves to phase two. The scammers act as if there are some difficulties in transferring the amount and will ask you to download an app for easy transfer," read the statement in part.
DCI further revealed that such messages always contain malware or trojans which give unauthorised access to your mobile phone and personal information.
Phishing attacks categorically on WhatsApp are cyber scams where fraudsters trick users into giving up sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or even bank details.
Fraudsters typically employ various techniques including exploiting missed calls. Once the victims answer the calls, the fraudsters gain unauthorised access to sensitive data.
Following the upsurge of such cases, DCI warned Kenyans against replying to any messages from unknown numbers offering jobs or any other types of offers.
“It is advised to block such numbers right away,” DCI noted.
“Do not download any app or click a link that seems suspicious or that an unknown individual suggests.”
