Phishing8 min read20 July 2026
WhatsApp Scams in the UK: The Complete Guide
From family impersonation to crypto investment fraud, this guide covers common WhatsApp scam patterns and safer ways to verify an unexpected request.
WhatsApp is used for personal communication with friends and family, which can make an unexpected message feel more credible than a cold email. Treat a request for money, a verification code, or a new contact number as something to verify independently.
The 'Hi Mum' / 'Hi Dad' Scam
A common family-impersonation pattern starts with an unknown number saying something like: "Hi Mum, it's me. I've broken my phone and this is my new number. I'm in a bit of trouble and need you to transfer some money urgently." The sender may then request a bank transfer and promise to repay it later.
The key to this scam is that it exploits a parent's instinct to help their child without asking too many questions. Always call your child's original number or contact them through another family member before sending any money.
WhatsApp Verification Code Scam
You receive a WhatsApp message from a contact (whose account has already been hijacked) asking you to forward a 6-digit code that was just sent to your phone. The code is actually WhatsApp's two-factor authentication code — forwarding it hands the fraudster full control of your WhatsApp account, which they then use to scam your contacts.
Crypto Investment Scams via WhatsApp
These begin with a message from an attractive stranger who "accidentally" texts the wrong number. After building rapport over days or weeks, they introduce a cryptocurrency investment opportunity with guaranteed returns. Victims are directed to a fake trading platform that shows impressive profits — until they try to withdraw, at which point fees and taxes are demanded, and the platform eventually disappears.
Warning Signs
| Red Flag | What It Suggests |
|---|---|
| Unknown number claiming to be family | Family impersonation scam |
| Request to forward a code | Account takeover attempt |
| "Wrong number" followed by friendship | Pig butchering / crypto scam setup |
| Urgent request for money | Stop and verify through an independently known contact route |
| Investment opportunity with guaranteed returns | Investment fraud |
How to Protect Yourself
Enable two-step verification in WhatsApp Settings. Do not forward verification codes. Verify an unexpected request for money by calling the person on a number already known to you. Block the sender and use the official reporting routes below if the message is suspicious.
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