WhatsApp Image Scam: How a single picture can empty your checking account?


Cybercriminals are hiding malware inside pictures utilizing a technique known as steganography, which conventional antivirus instruments usually miss. A latest case from Jabalpur noticed a person lose Rs 2 lakh after saving only one image. Here’s what you might want to know and how one can defend your self.

New Delhi:

Gone are the times when malicious hyperlinks or pretend calls had been the one threats on WhatsApp. In a stunning case from Jabalpur, a 28-year-old man misplaced Rs 2 lakh after downloading a easy picture which he obtained on WhatsApp. There had been no suspicious hyperlinks or telephone calls- only one picture that unleashed chaos.

The hidden hazard: What is steganography?

This new picture rip-off makes use of a way known as steganography, which permits cybercriminals to embed malicious code inside normal-looking pictures. Once the picture is downloaded, the malware silently installs itself in your telephone, stealing passwords, studying OTPs and giving hackers entry to your banking apps, with out you even understanding.

What’s worse? 

Most antivirus packages can’t detect it as a result of the code is cleverly hidden, and there isn’t any typical virus behaviour to flag.

Why is it so harmful for the customers?

This sort of malware is very harmful as a result of:

  • It doesn’t require any consumer interplay past downloading.
  • It bypasses most safety instruments.
  • It can drain your checking account silently.

In the Jabalpur case, the sufferer was unaware till it was too late. By the time he realised one thing was flawed, Rs 2 lakh had already vanished from his checking account.

How to Stay Safe from WhatsApp Image Scams

Protect your self and your loved ones with these easy steps:

  1. Disable auto-download: Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Storage and Data > Media Auto-Download and switch off all choices.
  2. Do not obtain unknown media: If you have no idea the sender, don’t obtain the file, irrespective of how innocent it appears to be like.
  3. Limit group invitations: Change your group settings to solely permit contacts so as to add you.
  4. Avoid sharing delicate data on WhatsApp: Always confirm the id of the particular person earlier than sharing something confidential.

Final warning: Share to remain secure

This rip-off can goal anybody. All it takes is one picture to compromise your information and checking account. Spread the phrase—as a result of the following WhatsApp ahead your buddy opens is likely to be a entice.

Read all of the Breaking News Live on -news.com and Get Latest English News & Updates from Technology

  • Related Posts

    Vijay Sethupathys Muthu Alias Kaattaan gets release date; teaser unveiled

    The poster of ‘Muthu Alias Kaattaan’ | Photo Credit: JioHotstar Vijay Sethupathy’s upcoming Tamil series, Muthu Alias Kaattaan will be released on JioHotstar on March 27, the makers announced on…

    Prague Masters: Gukesh suffers shock defeat to van Foreest, Aravindh draws with Maghsoodloo

    File photo of D. Gukesh | Photo Credit: PTI World Champion D Gukesh suffered a shock defeat to Jorden van Foreest of Holland, while Aravindh Chithambaram played out a draw…

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    You Missed

    Vijay Sethupathys Muthu Alias Kaattaan gets release date; teaser unveiled

    Vijay Sethupathys Muthu Alias Kaattaan gets release date; teaser unveiled

    The Genius of Trees: Read an excerpt from the book by Harriet Rix

    The Genius of Trees: Read an excerpt from the book by Harriet Rix

    Lamborghini seized after Kanpur crash released after 8.5 crore bond payment

    Lamborghini seized after Kanpur crash released after  8.5 crore bond payment

    Prague Masters: Gukesh suffers shock defeat to van Foreest, Aravindh draws with Maghsoodloo

    Prague Masters: Gukesh suffers shock defeat to van Foreest, Aravindh draws with Maghsoodloo

    The Kerala Story 2 box office prediction: Controversy buzz doesn’t help sequel, film to open at less than half of part 1

    The Kerala Story 2 box office prediction: Controversy buzz doesn’t help sequel, film to open at less than half of part 1

    Subedaar: Full music album of Anil Kapoors upcoming actioner out

    Subedaar: Full music album of Anil Kapoors upcoming actioner out