Welcome Again, LusaElimu!
Today, you will learn about Online Scammers in Tanzania and the methods they use to scam or hack accounts.
Methods Scammers Use to Hack Accounts
Recently, many Facebook and WhatsApp users have fallen victim to account hacking by following scammers’ instructions. Here’s how they do it:
1. Registration Requests (Request to Register/Login)
Scammers use a method where they trick account owners into approving a login or registration request. They often send messages offering financial help or fake promotions (e.g., pretending to be UNICEF).
If the account owner is not careful, they may fall for the scam and follow the scammer’s instructions. Meanwhile, the scammer is secretly requesting access to their account using the victim’s details.
2. How the Scam is Completed
Once the scammer reaches the final step of account access, they will tell the victim:
"You will receive a six-digit code; please send it to me so we can verify your offer."
What the victim doesn’t realize is that this verification code is actually for password recovery. By providing this code, they hand over full access to their account. The scammer then resets the password and takes control of the account.
Protecting Your WhatsApp Account
To enhance security on WhatsApp:
- Go to Settings → Account
- Enable Two-Step Verification
- Set a secret PIN (which only you should know)
This ensures that even if someone tries to hack your account, they will need your secret PIN.
Important Warning for Social Media Users
- Never share your verification code (six-digit code) with anyone.
- These codes usually come with a message saying: "Do not share this code with anyone."
- Keeping your codes private is the best way to protect your accounts from hackers.
Stay safe online!
