Cybercrime is evolving, and WhatsApp users are the latest targets of a silent but dangerous scam. In 2023 alone, reports by Surfshark revealed that more than 343 million people worldwide fell victim to cyberattacks, marking a 72% increase in data breaches compared to 2021. Phishing remains the most common form of cybercrime, affecting nearly 323,972 internet users, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report.
But this new scam isn’t about phishing links or fake OTP requests. Hackers have found a way to embed malware within WhatsApp images, using a technique known as steganography. The worst part? Victims don’t even have to click on a suspicious link, simply opening an infected image is enough for hackers to steal personal data.
How the scam works
According to cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky, cybercriminals are now hiding harmful code inside seemingly normal image files. Once a user downloads or views the image, the malware silently activates, extracting banking credentials, passwords, and personal data from the device,without the victim ever noticing.
It’s a subtle, sophisticated form of attack that bypasses traditional security checks. Unlike phishing scams that rely on tricking victims into handing over sensitive details, this method operates in the background, making detection incredibly difficult.
Real cases and Africa’s vulnerability
This scam isn’t just theoretical,it has already caused financial losses in various parts of the world. In India, a man in Jabalpur lost nearly ₹2 lakh after downloading an infected image, as reported by India Today. Meanwhile, cybersecurity experts in Africa warn that the region’s increasing reliance on mobile banking could make WhatsApp users more vulnerable than ever.
The African Cybersecurity Report highlights that many users across the continent remain unaware of advanced hacking techniques, making them prime targets for scams like this. In countries such as Nigeria and South Africa, where digital transactions are rapidly becoming the norm, the risk is particularly high.
Protecting yourself from hidden threats
With WhatsApp being a primary means of communication for millions, staying safe requires extra vigilance. Cybersecurity experts at McAfee advise users to disable automatic media downloads and avoid opening images from unknown sources.
Updating your phone’s software and installing a reliable antivirus program can also help detect hidden threats. While WhatsApp is reportedly working on new security updates to counter malware-based attacks, users must remain cautious until stricter protections are in place.
WhatsApp’s response and the road ahead
While WhatsApp has not officially addressed this latest scam, the company has previously warned users against opening images from unfamiliar contacts. They recommend turning off auto-download settings, which can be done under WhatsApp’s privacy and security settings
As hackers continue to refine their tactics, online security becomes more crucial than ever. WhatsApp’s image scam is a wake-up call that no one is truly safe in the digital world. Protect yourself, spread awareness, and think twice before opening any unfamiliar media files.
Have you noticed suspicious activity on your WhatsApp lately? Stay alert and let others know how to stay safe.
