A WhatsApp call can come from a real contact, a business or an unknown number. A familiar profile photo or display name does not prove who is calling: scammers can impersonate people and organizations. Treat unexpected requests for money, passwords, verification codes or urgent action as unverified until you confirm them through a separate trusted channel.
Warning signs during a call or chat
- The caller claims to be a relative, employer, bank or WhatsApp Support and says there is an emergency.
- They ask you to read out a one-time code, two-step verification password or PIN, or to scan a QR code to “verify” your account.
- They pressure you to send money, pay a fee to restore or unban an account, or install an app from a link.
- A link or website uses a look-alike spelling, unusual characters or a shortened address that hides the destination.
- A known contact suddenly changes payment details or asks for secrecy. Their account may be compromised.
Verify before responding
End the call if you feel pressured. Contact the person using a number you already have saved, or call the organization through the phone number on its official website or payment card. Do not use a callback number or link supplied in the suspicious message. Never share the WhatsApp registration code. Turn on two-step verification and protect its password or PIN; WhatsApp may present an upgrade path from the older PIN flow, so follow the current in-app prompts. Keep the official app updated and avoid modified WhatsApp apps.
Block and report a suspicious sender
Open the chat or call information for the unknown number, review the sender details, then use WhatsApp’s report and block controls if appropriate. Reporting can send WhatsApp recent messages and related account information for review; read the in-app notice before confirming. Keep evidence such as transaction receipts or messages if you need to report fraud to your bank or local authorities, but do not forward suspicious links to others.
If you already shared a registration code, try to register your number again in the official WhatsApp app and follow the account recovery instructions. Contact your mobile carrier if you suspect someone has taken control of your phone number. If you transferred money or payment details, contact your bank or payment provider promptly. A legitimate support interaction should not require you to reveal your password, PIN or payment details in a chat.
Official references
WhatsApp Help Center: suspicious messages and scams · WhatsApp Help Center: registration and two-step verification · WhatsApp Help Center: block and report someone
