Fake WhatsApp Messages Could Lead to Account Hacks: PTA

News Desk

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant while using WhatsApp, following a surge in fake messages that could result in account hacking or personal data theft.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the PTA revealed that multiple users have reported receiving suspicious WhatsApp messages from both local and international numbers. These deceptive messages often impersonate the official WhatsApp account, using the app’s logo and a clickable URL link to mislead recipients.

“The public is strongly advised not to click on any such links or respond to these messages,” the PTA cautioned. Many of these messages falsely claim that a user’s WhatsApp account will be deactivated or requires verification.

“These links are malicious in nature and can be used to steal personal information or gain unauthorized access to users’ WhatsApp accounts,” the authority warned.

PTA described these scams as part of a wider phishing campaign targeting mobile phone users across Pakistan. The regulator has urged the public to stay alert and report any such suspicious activity.

“If you receive a message that seems suspicious or overly urgent — especially one with a link demanding immediate action — it is best to ignore and delete it,” the advisory stated.

The authority also reminded citizens that WhatsApp will never ask users to share sensitive information or click on unofficial links as part of its communication process.

This warning comes amid rising concerns about digital privacy and a growing number of cybercrime cases targeting messaging platforms in Pakistan.