Sunday, February 9, 2025
4.8 C
Gedling

WhatsApp subscription scam warning to Gedling borough residents

Bookmark

Get breaking news and a daily update sent to your WhatsApp by signing up HERE

WhatsApp users in Gedling borough are being warned about a spoof texts and emails that claims “their subscription is ending soon” – but it’s a scam to steal bank details.

Scam-busters Action Fraud say that the texts and emails encourage users who receive the message to click on a link to verify their account and then purchase lifetime subscription for 99p. The link takes the victim to a screen that then asks them to submit their bank details, which can be used by fraudsters to take funds out of the account.

Long term users of WhatsApp will remember paying a 0.99p annual fee to use the messaging service. In 2016, this was scrapped by Facebook who took over running of the company after buying it for £11.4bn.

Now scammers hope that those who remember paying a 99p fee could be duped into believing the service has gone back to a subscription model and submit their bank details.

SCAM: The fake email being sent to WhatsApp users claiming their subscription is due to expire

This isnt the first scam of its kind to attempt to trick WhatsApp users. Last year users were being tricked into downloading a fake ‘gold’ version of WhatsApp which infected Android devices with malware.

- Advertisement -

A spokesman for Action Fraud said: “If you receive one of these emails or text messages, do not click on any links. Instead, delete it and report it to us. If you have clicked on one of the links, run antivirus software to ensure your device has not been infected with malware.”

Spotted something? Got a story? Email our newsdesk news@gedlingeye.co.uk

Read more from Gedling Eye

Get your daily news briefing every evening…

Sign up for our daily news email and receive Gedling borough news direct to your email inbox in the early evening, to read at your leisure on your desktop, tablet or mobile wherever you are.

We don’t spam and you'll only receive one email a day

Join the discussion

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

ADVERTISEMENT

Most read

Headlines

Plans to demolish The Friar Tuck pub in Arnold and build retirement flats tipped for approval

The Friar Tuck, in Gedling Road, is currently owned by Greene King and was originally opened in 1958.

Gedling Borough Council to spend £1.1million on housing for homeless families

The authority says it is spending £1.1 million on the properties over the next two years

A guide to workplace safety and injury claims

When workplace accidents occur, employees need clear guidance on protecting their wellbeing and understanding their rights. This guide explains...