How It Works
A scammer hacks or clones a friend's WhatsApp/social media account (or simply creates a lookalike profile), then messages the victim's contacts pretending to be that friend, claiming an emergency and urgently requesting money to be sent via UPI.
Real Example
You receive a WhatsApp message from what looks like your friend's number: "I'm stuck, lost my wallet, please send ₹10,000 to this UPI ID urgently, will return tomorrow." The account is actually compromised or spoofed.
Red Flags 🚩
- Unusual message from a friend or contact asking for urgent money
- Request comes only via text, never a voice or video call
- Story involves being stuck somewhere with no other way to get help
- UPI ID or bank account given doesn't match what you'd expect for that friend
Protection Steps 🛡️
- Always call the friend directly to verify before sending any money.
- Be suspicious if a "friend" avoids talking on a call and insists on text only.
- Enable two-step verification on your own WhatsApp to prevent your account from being hijacked.
- Warn your contacts immediately if you discover your own account has been compromised.