Warning for WhatsApp users as hijacking scams jump
Police have issued a fresh warning over a sharp escalation in WhatsApp account hijacking scams, stressing that a recent dip in total monetary losses should not be mistaken as improved security. The force said it had handled 1,993 such cases between January and July, up 170 percent year-on-year. The seven-month figure already eclipsed the total of 1,669 last year. Victims this year reported…
Hong Kong police have issued a warning about a sharp increase in WhatsApp account hijacking scams, despite a decrease in total monetary losses. From January to July, authorities recorded 1,993 cases, a 170 percent year-on-year rise. This surpasses the 1,669 cases reported in the previous year. Victims have reported aggregate losses of HK$146.3 million, a 22.7 percent decrease from the same period in 2025.
However, authorities urge against complacency, as some victims have lost millions of dollars. The scams rely on a simple tactic: scammers send a push SMS claiming the victim's account is at risk of suspension, prompting immediate action. Clicking on an embedded link exposes the account, allowing scammers to access chat histories, impersonate contacts, and request payments.
Authorities advise users to avoid suspicious links or QR codes and scrutinize unfamiliar e-wallet or third-party requests before transferring money. WhatsApp owner Meta is combating fraud using AI tools to detect suspicious activity. Meta's Asia-Pacific policy director stressed that account hijacking is a serious breach, allowing criminals to gather personal information and compromise more accounts.
He emphasized the importance of user vigilance, double-checking actions through other platforms, and remaining alert to evolving tactics.
Written by urgent.news from RTHK English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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