Police today offered an advisory on scammers tricking people into giving up their WhatsApp account details.

A police spokesman said that thieves had been contacting users of the app and deceiving them into disclosing their six-digit verification codes.

They then used these codes to access the account and message other contacts requesting money or sensitive information.

Those with WhatsApp should be suspicious of unusual messages from friends or family, particularly if they ask for financial assistance.

Anyone who receives messages like these should ask to call or meet in person to verify the messenger’s identity.

WhatsApp users were also warned against giving up their verification codes or one-time passwords, regardless of whether requests came from seemingly reputable sources.

The spokesman warned that hackers would likely use a sense of urgency to drive victims to act without thinking.

WhatsApp users were urged to protect themselves using the app’s two-step verification and to avoid sharing personal information.

The public were advised to keep updated on cybersecurity best practices.

Victims of hackers should immediately inform their contacts through alternative means to prevent further exploitation.

They should then report the incident to WhatsApp through the in-app help feature and file a report with the Bermuda Police Service through their community reporting portal.