Gov’t issues cybersecurity warning amid rising WhatsApp scams

The Virgin Islands government has issued an alert to the public about social engineering attacks targeting WhatsApp users locally.

The government has urged residents to remain vigilant against these cyberattacks, cautioning the public to verify unknown numbers and avoid sharing sensitive information over WhatsApp.

Individuals are advised to block and delete suspicious contacts immediately and to exercise caution when opening links. The government also recommends using multifactor authentication to enhance account security and reporting any suspicious activity to authorities.

This is a manipulation technique used to trick individuals into sending funds, compromising their security, and revealing private information, the government explained. Officials warned that cyber-attackers often pose as familiar contacts or government officials, using fear and urgency to deceive victims.

Cyber attacks not isolated to BVI

These incidents are not isolated to the Virgin Islands. Reports of similar scams have surfaced in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and unconfirmed cases in Saint Kitts.

In Saint Vincent, the police confirmed incidents of individuals being hacked via WhatsApp and tricked into sending money through the U.S.-based money transfer app, Zelle. Meanwhile, Dominica residents have shared screenshots of unknown numbers requesting six-digit codes. Residents there were told that sharing these codes can allow hackers to access personal accounts or data.

Though the tactics differ, the common goal of these cybercriminals is to exploit and extort funds from unsuspecting individuals.

The Virgin Islands government emphasized the importance of public awareness and proactive measures to prevent cybercrimes, underscoring that cybersecurity begins with individuals taking steps to protect their privacy and digital security.