Beware of scam messages
or how not to get tricked on WhatsApp
and social networks

You might be thinking: “This can’t happen to me, I’ve heard of these tricks before.” But the opposite is true. Fraudsters are getting smarter, and their messages seem so believable that even people who thought they wouldn’t be surprised are fooled.

In recent months, the number of cyberattacks targeting ordinary users of social networks and communication applications has also been increasing. Fraudsters use WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, or even ordinary SMS to lure you into sending money under various pretexts.

The main danger in these messages is that they seem very believable. Attackers know our psychology – they know that when a “child” or a “colleague” asks for quick help, we tend to react immediately. And it is precisely this moment that they rely on. In one day, you may have several things that affect your perception, whether it’s stress, unfinished work, pressure on deadlines, or maybe you really talked to a colleague about your financial situation and possible help…

Typical scenarios

  • A new number from a loved one: “Hi Mom, I have a new number. I urgently need to send money.”
  • A colleague in need: “I’m on a business trip and don’t have access to my account. Please send a deposit.”
  • A win with a fee: “Congratulations, you’ve won! Just pay a small fee.”

In all cases, it’s an attempt to build trust and get a quick response from you without verification.

What to watch out for

  • Don’t act impulsively – even if the message seems urgent. Scammers rely on you to act quickly and without verification.
  • Never send money without personal verification – call the person back or contact them in another way.
  • Do not click on suspicious links – they can lead to fake sites or download malicious software.
  • Do not share sensitive information – account numbers, passwords or company logins. Attackers can use them for further attacks.

How to defend yourself effectively

  • Verify the sender’s identity – a short phone call often solves everything.
  • Set up two-step verification – it increases account security and protects your account even if your password is leaked.
  • Use strong and unique passwords – and change them regularly.

Conclusion

Scam messages are becoming more sophisticated, but they have one thing in common – they try to get a quick reaction from you. If you take a moment to verify and follow the basic rules of caution, you will significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Remember: it’s better to verify twice than to be sorry once.

The authors of the article are
Petra Cigáňová, SAP Consultant, and Jana Chrpová, Project and HR Manager, PREGIS, a.s.

Published 5 December 2025

 

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