Social Engineering is a manipulation technique used by attackers to trick individuals into soliciting funds, revealing confidential information, granting unauthorized access, or performing actions that compromise security.Photo: inquest.net

The government of the Virgin Islands has put out an advisory asking members of the public to be aware and vigilant as social engineering attacks targeting WhatsApp are on the rise in the Territory. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Social Engineering is a manipulation technique used by attackers to trick individuals into soliciting funds, revealing confidential information, granting unauthorized access, or performing actions that compromise security.

The advisory states that the social engineering attackers may pose as friends, colleagues, or government officials.

Reports indicate that callers request individuals to repeat confirmation codes to them which are then used to take over their Whatsapp. 

What to do

In the event you may be contacted by a potential attacker, always double-check the identity of the person contacting you. Immediately block and delete messages and calls from unknown or suspicious contacts.

“Links or attachments shared via these messages could compromise your device or expose sensitive information…Do Not Share Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing passwords, PINs, authorization codes, debit and credit cards, banking information, or other confidential details on WhatsApp,” the advisory added.

Persons are being advised to be cautious of links and are asked to not click on links or download them unless certain of their legitimacy.

The authorities should be notified immediately if there are suspicions of an attack or if you may have shared any information.

Users of WhatsApp are also advised to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on their accounts, applications, and email to add an extra layer of security.

“Your vigilance plays a crucial role in keeping your information and devices safe and secure,” the advisory stated.