Expert Says: Whatsapp fraud using the “share screen” feature is rife
Fraud Through the Share Screen feature on WhatsApp
Features Share screen In the WhatsApp (WA) instant messaging application, it has recently become a hot topic because it is said to be used as a fraud mode. Various parties, including government agencies and cybersecurity experts, gave warnings regarding the risks that could arise from using this feature.
Based on reports from several institutions, the mode of fraud through the Share Screen Wa feature is increasingly prevalent in various countries, including the US, India, to Indonesia. One example is the case reported by the United States FBI, which found that this feature can be used by perpetrators to perform social engineering techniquesSocial Engineering).
Dangerous mode of fraud
According to the FBI, the perpetrators of fraud in the US use a trick known as Phantom Hacker Scam. The mode starts when the victim receives a call or message claiming to be from the bank. With the reason that the account is being hacked, the victim is directed to transfer money to an account called “safe”.
Next, the fraudster asked the victim to move to a WhatsApp call under the pretext of being safer. At this point, the perpetrator will ask the victim to activate the feature Share screen. When the screen is shared during a video call, the fraudster can see the activity on the victim’s cellphone in real-time. Starting from the contents of the conversation, photos, codes One Time Password (OTP), to other sensitive data such as account numbers, PINs, and financial application information.
“Just one click wrong, and they can see everything on your smartphone screen,” the FBI wrote in its warning.
With access to personal data, fraudsters have the potential to take over accounts, drain accounts, and abuse the victim’s identity.
how to anticipate fraud mode
Cyber security expert, Alfons Tanujaya, reminded the public about the dangers of sharing screens carelessly, especially if asked by unknown people. He explained that the features Share screen WA allows users to share the screen display with the other person. This can pose a risk because the feature can show sensitive information such as User ID, PIN, or OTP.
“The data can be used to steal accounts or funds from mobile banking services or e-wallets,” said Alfons.
Although technically sharing the screen without showing passwords or other important data is harmless, it is still not wise. “If you don’t open a password or important data when you share the screen, technically you can’t directly access (the scammer). But the problem is, why share the screen with strangers?” Ask him.
Alfons suggested that people avoid sharing screens, unless there is a clear and verifiable interest. “Just don’t give a screen share if there is no interest. Don’t just share the screen,” he said.
important steps to maintain digital security
Alfons also emphasized that vigilance is the main key in maintaining the security of digital assets in the fast-paced digital era. He suggested that the public should not give access Share screen to unknown people. If there is such a request, immediately block the sender and report it to the authorities.
He also reminded people to get used to not doing things they don’t understand, especially related to sensitive actions such as running APK files or sharing screens. “Don’t let the data be burglarized and then reasoned that you did nothing. It was clearly detrimental,” he said.
People must get used to maintaining digital assets properly. “Don’t be careless, don’t be easily fooled, and don’t easily believe in digital content that can be easily faked,” he added.
case in Indonesia
Fraud mode through features Share screen WA also had hit the Mayor of Central Jakarta, Arifin. In a video uploaded to his personal Instagram account, he said he received a WhatsApp call from someone claiming to be a sub-district officer. The perpetrator argued that he wanted to help activate the digital ID card, then tried to guide Arifin to open the feature Share screen.
However, Arifin, who was aware of the initial indication of fraud, did not follow the instructions. “Friends, be careful! Never give personal data or WhatsApp access to unknown people,” wrote Arifin on his social media account.
He also reminded the public to always ensure official information only through legitimate government channels. “Let’s be more vigilant so as not to become a victim of digital fraud,” he added.
