Overview

• The latest variant uses fake video calls simulating family members to prompt screen sharing and steal six-digit verification codes.
• Argentina’s statistics agency INDEC has debunked circulating messages posing as household surveys since its operations are always conducted in person.
• Scammers exploit the “friend scam” by sending innocuous texts from hacked contacts to obtain and misuse verification codes for further fraud.
• WhatsApp and Spain’s INCIBE have updated safety guidelines urging users to enable two-step verification, keep codes confidential and verify requests through other channels.
• Victims are advised to report hijacked accounts immediately, notify contacts of the breach, reinstall the app and contact support or local authorities.