PTA has issued a nationwide advisory to warn users about a new and growing threat targeting WhatsApp users across Pakistan. The authority reports that a series of scam messages are being circulated via WhatsApp, originating from both local and international numbers. These messages attempt to impersonate WhatsApp’s official account by using its logo and mimic the platform’s style to gain the trust of unsuspecting users.
According to PTA, these fraudulent messages often contain misleading content, including false claims of account violations, requests for user verification, or other urgent instructions that push recipients to take immediate action. Most critically, they include malicious URLs that, once clicked, may lead to the theft of personal information or even complete compromise of the user’s WhatsApp account.
PTA clarified that these messages are not associated with WhatsApp in any official capacity. They are designed to deceive recipients into sharing sensitive information or granting unauthorized access to their accounts. The links embedded in these messages may appear legitimate but are engineered to install malware or redirect users to phishing websites.
In response, PTA has urged all WhatsApp users to avoid engaging with such messages under any circumstances. Users should refrain from clicking on any links contained in these suspicious texts and should not respond to the sender. Instead, PTA advises that the message sender be immediately blocked and reported through WhatsApp’s in-app reporting tools. Both Android and iOS users can follow the official steps outlined in WhatsApp’s help center to report these types of incidents.
While the content of these scam messages may seem credible due to visual elements like logos and formatting, PTA stressed that WhatsApp does not send unsolicited requests for verification, warnings, or other actions via personal messages. Users are encouraged to remain vigilant and to approach any unexpected messages requesting account-related actions with skepticism.
To further protect their accounts, citizens are advised to keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version available on their devices and to enable two-step verification. This added layer of security helps prevent unauthorized access even if login credentials are compromised.
PTA reaffirmed its continued efforts to safeguard users’ digital experiences and protect national communication platforms from cyber threats. The authority is actively monitoring the situation and encourages the public to play a proactive role in securing their personal information by reporting fraudulent content and staying informed about ongoing digital threats.
