WhatsApp Christmas Scam: Not Santa, 'cyber thugs' are knocking, emptying accounts like this!
Cybercriminals have also become active in the run-up to Christmas 2025. Scammers have begun experimenting with new tactics to lure people into their traps. Let's explain how scams are operating and how you can protect yourself.
Amid the excitement of Christmas 2025, it's important to be cautious, as cybercriminals have become active. Scammers have begun defrauding people by offering good wishes, freebies, and surprise gifts.
Cybercriminals are now taking advantage of the Christmas season to lure users by sending dangerous links. If someone falls for the scammers' tempting offers, a single mistake could empty their bank account and ruin the festive mood.
Cyber police say the scam is spreading rapidly through WhatsApp forwards and often appears to come from friends, family members or trusted contacts whose accounts have already been hacked.
How does the Christmas scam work?
The scam typically begins with a festive message like "Merry Christmas! You've got a gift" or "A Christmas bonus awaits you." The message contains a small or hidden link that claims to offer cashback, gift vouchers, shopping coupons, or cash rewards.
Once the link is opened, users are redirected to a fake website that resembles a well-known brand, bank, or payment platform. They are then asked to enter their mobile number, personal details, and banking information, or to install an app or grant permissions.
Clicking on the link installs malware, giving the fraudsters remote access to the phone, allowing them to read OTPs, access banking apps, and perform transactions without permission.
How to protect yourself from WhatsApp scam?
- It is advisable to never click on unknown or suspicious links.
- Think 100 times before opening any festive offer or gift link.
- Avoid entering banking details, CVV number or OTP on any unknown site.
- Keep WhatsApp two-step verification on.
Cyber Crime