Public Urged to Stay Alert as Phishing Scams and Hacking Incidents Surge
Zimbabwean police have issued a stark warning to citizens regarding a growing wave of cyberattacks targeting WhatsApp users. Cybercriminals are leveraging sophisticated phishing tactics to deceive users into divulging sensitive information, including bank details, with the intent to steal data or solicit money from their contacts.
Speaking to the press, National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed an alarming rise in incidents. These scams have impacted various segments of the population, from senior Government officials and media personnel to everyday users.
“There is a rampant cyberattack targeting people across the country, with messages sent from unknown, often foreign numbers. The moment you click on a suspicious link, you are hacked,” said Commissioner Nyathi during a briefing yesterday.
Common Cyber Threats on WhatsApp
- Phishing Links: Scammers send fraudulent messages, often containing malicious links. Once clicked, these links compromise user accounts. Victims have reported scenarios such as:
- Requests for urgent financial assistance.
- Promises of free mobile data.
- Notifications about winning monetary prizes.
- Call Forwarding Exploits: Criminals misuse WhatsApp’s “Forward Call” feature. Victims are tricked into dialling codes that redirect their incoming calls, allowing scammers to take control of their WhatsApp accounts.
In one high-profile incident, a Government official’s WhatsApp account was hacked, and scammers sent distress messages to their contacts. Two individuals lost US$250 and ZWL500 after transferring money, believing the requests were genuine.
How Cybercriminals Operate
Cybercriminals use stolen identity documents to register SIM cards and deploy foreign numbers to carry out these attacks. They often manipulate victims by creating urgency or using emotional appeals to prompt hasty decisions.
Police Initiatives and Public Responsibility
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is ramping up efforts to trace and apprehend perpetrators, working in collaboration with telecommunications service providers. Authorities have urged the public to:
- Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources.
- Verify the authenticity of messages, especially those requesting financial assistance.
- Report suspicious activities to the police immediately.
Commissioner Nyathi stressed, “We are utilizing all resources available to combat these criminals. Public vigilance is crucial in curbing these threats.”
How to Protect Yourself
- Enable Two-Step Verification: Strengthen your WhatsApp account by activating two-factor authentication.
- Be Wary of Unknown Numbers: Avoid engaging with messages or calls from unfamiliar sources.
- Monitor App Permissions: Regularly review the permissions granted to your apps and ensure your device software is up to date.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scams and share this knowledge with family and friends.
Rising Global Trend
This surge in cybercrime mirrors global trends. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. Messaging platforms like WhatsApp are increasingly targeted due to their widespread usage and direct communication capabilities.
In countries like South Africa, similar scams have been reported, prompting regulatory authorities to impose stricter policies for SIM card registrations and implement public awareness campaigns.
