In recent times, users have been increasingly targeted by scammers making WhatsApp calls from the +62 country code, which belongs to Indonesia. These scammers often promise job opportunities or easy money in exchange for personal information or fees. To protect yourself, it’s crucial to understand these scams, recognize warning signs, and take proactive steps to block and report suspicious calls. This guide will help you navigate these challenges and keep your information safe.

Key Takeaways

• Do not answer calls from unknown numbers with the +62 code.
• Always block and report suspicious contacts on WhatsApp.
• Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can contact you.
• Enable features like ‘Silence Unknown Callers’ for added safety.
• Stay informed about common scams to better protect yourself.

Understanding the +62 Country Code

What is the +62 Country Code?

The +62 country code is assigned to Indonesia. Recently, this code has been misused by scammers to trick people into giving away their money. Scammers often promise job opportunities or small tasks, but they ask for a fee upfront. After receiving the payment, they usually disappear without a trace.

Why Scammers Use the +62 Code

Scammers prefer using the +62 code because it can appear legitimate to many users. They often create fake job offers or tasks that seem appealing. Here are some common tactics:

• Offering part-time jobs with a joining fee.
• Asking users to like videos on platforms like YouTube for payment.
• Initially sending a small amount of money to gain trust.

Common Scams Associated with +62

Several scams have been reported involving the +62 code. Here are a few:

1. Job Scams: Fake job offers that require payment.
2. Investment Scams: Promises of high returns for small investments.
3. Phishing Scams: Requests for personal information under the guise of legitimate offers.

Be cautious when receiving calls or messages from unknown numbers with the +62 code. It’s better to ignore them than to risk falling victim to a scam.

Recognizing Fraudulent WhatsApp Calls

Signs of a Scam Call

When you receive a call from an unknown number, especially one with a +62 country code, be cautious. Here are some signs that it might be a scam:

• The caller is overly friendly or pushy.
• They ask for personal information right away.
• The call seems to be from a random number with no clear reason for contacting you.

Always trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Examples of Fraudulent Calls

Scammers often use various tactics to trick people. Here are a few common examples:

1. Fake job offers that require personal details.
2. Prize scams where you are told you’ve won something but need to pay a fee.
3. Tech support scams claiming your device has a virus.

How to Verify a Legitimate Call

To ensure a call is genuine, follow these steps:

1. Ask for details: Request more information about the caller.
2. Check their number: Look up the number online to see if it’s associated with scams.
3. Contact the company directly: If they claim to be from a business, call the official number to verify.

Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure, don’t engage with the caller.

Steps to Block and Report Suspicious Numbers

How to Block a Number on WhatsApp

To keep yourself safe from unwanted calls, blocking suspicious numbers is essential. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open WhatsApp and find the chat with the number you want to block.
2. Tap the three-dot icon at the top right corner.
3. Select ‘More’ from the menu.
4. Tap on ‘Block’ and confirm by selecting the checkmark.

Reporting a Number to WhatsApp

Reporting helps WhatsApp take action against scammers. Follow these steps:

1. After blocking the number, go back to the three-dot menu.
2. Choose ‘Report’ from the same options.
3. Confirm your choice to report the number.

Additional Reporting Measures

In addition to blocking and reporting, consider these actions:

• Do not engage with unknown numbers.
• Avoid clicking on any links sent by suspicious contacts.
• Educate friends and family about these scams to spread awareness.

Remember, staying vigilant is key to protecting yourself from scams. Always think twice before interacting with unknown contacts.

Using WhatsApp Privacy Settings Effectively

Adjusting Privacy Settings

To keep your WhatsApp account safe, it’s important to adjust your privacy settings. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Open WhatsApp and tap the three-dot icon at the top.
2. Select Settings from the menu.
3. Go to Privacy and adjust who can see your profile picture, status, and last seen.

Limiting Who Can Add You to Groups

To prevent unwanted group invitations:

• Open WhatsApp and tap the three-dot icon.
• Select Settings.
• Go to Privacy and click on Groups.
• Choose My Contacts to limit group adds to only your contacts.

Enabling Two-Step Verification

Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security. To enable it:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
2. Tap on Account and select Two-step verification.
3. Follow the prompts to set up a six-digit PIN.

By using these privacy settings, you can significantly reduce the risk of receiving spam and fraudulent calls on WhatsApp. Stay safe and protect your personal information!

Avoiding Interaction with Unknown Numbers

Why You Shouldn’t Answer Unknown Calls

When you receive a call from an unknown number, especially one with a +62 country code, it’s best to not answer. Many of these calls are linked to scams. Ignoring them can save you from potential trouble.

Risks of Messaging Back

Responding to unknown numbers can lead to unwanted consequences. Here are some risks:

• You might confirm your number is active, leading to more spam.
• Scammers could try to extract personal information.
• You may be charged for responding to premium-rate numbers.

Safe Practices for Handling Unknown Contacts

To protect yourself, follow these guidelines:

1. Do not pick up calls from numbers you don’t recognize.
2. Avoid messaging back unknown contacts.
3. Block and report suspicious numbers on WhatsApp.

Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Protecting your personal information is crucial in today’s digital world.

Enabling Silence Unknown Callers Feature

How to Activate Silence Unknown Callers

To stop unwanted calls from unknown numbers, you can enable the Silence Unknown Callers feature on WhatsApp. Here’s how:

1. Open WhatsApp on your device.
2. Tap the three-dot icon at the top right corner.
3. Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
4. Go to Privacy and scroll down to the Calls section.
5. Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.

Benefits of Silencing Unknown Callers

Enabling this feature can help you in several ways:

• Reduces distractions from spam calls.
• Helps you focus on important calls from known contacts.
• Protects you from potential scams and fraud.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems with this feature, consider the following:

• Ensure your app is updated to the latest version.
• Restart your device to refresh settings.
• Check if the feature is still enabled in your privacy settings.

By silencing unknown callers, you can create a safer and more peaceful communication environment.

Educating Yourself on Common Scams

Types of Scams to Watch Out For

Scammers are always coming up with new tricks. Here are some common scams to be aware of:

• Job offers that ask for money upfront.
• Requests to click on links that lead to fake websites.
• Messages claiming you’ve won a prize but need to pay a fee to claim it.

Real-Life Examples of WhatsApp Scams

Many people have fallen for scams. Here are a few examples:

1. A person received a call offering a job but was asked to pay a joining fee.
2. Someone was told they could earn money by liking videos but ended up losing money instead.
3. A user got a message claiming they had won a gift card but had to provide personal information to claim it.

Resources for Staying Informed

To protect yourself, stay updated on scams. Here are some resources:

• Follow trusted news sources for updates on scams.
• Join online forums where people share their experiences.
• Check official websites for tips on online safety.

Staying informed is your best defense against scams. Always be cautious and think twice before sharing personal information.

Protecting Your Personal Information

Why Personal Information is Targeted

Scammers often seek personal information to commit fraud. Your data can be valuable to them. They may use it to steal your identity or access your accounts.

Tips for Safeguarding Your Data

To keep your information safe, consider these steps:

1. Use strong passwords that are hard to guess.
2. Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
3. Be careful about sharing personal details online.

What to Do if Your Information is Compromised

If you think your information has been stolen:

• Change your passwords immediately.
• Contact your bank to report any suspicious activity.
• Monitor your accounts for unusual transactions.

Always be cautious about what you share online. Protecting your personal information is key to avoiding scams.

Contacting Authorities and Support

When to Contact Local Authorities

If you suspect that you are a victim of fraud or spam calls, it’s important to act quickly. Contact local authorities if you experience any of the following:

• You have lost money due to a scam.
• You received threats or harassment.
• You believe your personal information has been compromised.

How to Report to WhatsApp Support

You can report suspicious activity directly to WhatsApp. Here’s how:

1. Open the chat with the suspicious number.
2. Tap the three-dot menu at the top right.
3. Select ‘More’ and then ‘Report’.
4. Follow the prompts to complete your report.

Other Support Resources Available

In addition to WhatsApp, consider these resources:

• Local law enforcement: Report scams to your local police.
• Cybercrime units: Many countries have dedicated cybercrime divisions.
• Consumer protection agencies: They can provide guidance and support.

Always remember to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety. Reporting scams helps protect not just you, but others as well.

Spreading Awareness Among Friends and Family

Sharing Information About Scams

Educating your loved ones about scams is crucial. Discussing the signs of scams can help protect them. Here are some key points to cover:

• Common signs of a scam include requests for money or personal information.
• Encourage them to verify the identity of unknown contacts before engaging.
• Remind them to report suspicious messages and calls to WhatsApp.

Encouraging Safe Practices

Promoting safe practices can make a big difference. Here are some suggestions:

1. Advise them not to answer calls from unknown numbers.
2. Suggest they avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
3. Encourage them to use privacy settings on WhatsApp to limit who can contact them.

Creating a Support Network

Building a support network can help everyone stay informed. Consider these steps:

• Organize regular discussions about online safety.
• Share articles and resources about scams and safety tips.
• Create a group chat to share updates on suspicious activities.

Staying informed and sharing knowledge can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone.

Utilizing Advanced Security Features

Overview of WhatsApp Security Features

WhatsApp offers several security features to help protect your account. These include:

• End-to-end encryption: This means only you and the person you’re communicating with can read what is sent.
• Two-step verification: Adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN when registering your phone number.
• Privacy settings: Control who can see your profile photo, status, and last seen.

How to Use End-to-End Encryption

To ensure your messages are secure:

1. Check encryption status: Tap on the message info to see if it’s encrypted.
2. Use the latest version: Always update your app to benefit from the latest security features.
3. Avoid sharing sensitive information: Even with encryption, be cautious about what you share.

Regularly Updating the App for Security

Keeping your app updated is crucial. Here’s why:

• Bug fixes: Updates often fix security vulnerabilities.
• New features: Updates can introduce new security features.
• Improved performance: A well-maintained app runs smoother and is less prone to issues.

Remember: Regular updates help keep your information safe from potential threats.

Final Thoughts on Avoiding Fraudulent WhatsApp Calls

In conclusion, staying safe from fraud and spam calls on WhatsApp, especially those from the +62 country code, is crucial. Always be cautious when receiving calls or messages from unknown numbers. If you get a call from a number you don’t recognize, it’s best not to answer. Avoid replying to suspicious messages, and never share personal information. Blocking and reporting these numbers can help protect you and others. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a safer experience on WhatsApp and keep scammers at bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the +62 country code stand for?

The +62 country code is for Indonesia. Recently, it has been used by scammers to trick people.

How can I stop receiving WhatsApp calls from the +62 code?

You can avoid answering calls from unknown numbers, especially if they start with +62. It’s best not to reply to them.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious WhatsApp call?

If you get a suspicious call, do not engage. Block the number and report it to WhatsApp.

How can I adjust my WhatsApp privacy settings?

You can change privacy settings by going to WhatsApp settings, then selecting Privacy to limit who can contact you.

Why is it risky to answer calls from unknown numbers?

Answering calls from unknown numbers can lead to scams where scammers try to take your money or personal information.

What is the ‘Silence Unknown Callers’ feature?

This feature lets you silence calls from numbers that aren’t saved in your contacts, helping you avoid spam.

How can I protect my personal information on WhatsApp?

Keep your information private by not sharing it with unknown contacts and using WhatsApp’s privacy settings.

What should I do if I’ve been scammed?

If you’ve been scammed, contact your bank, change your WhatsApp password, and report the scam to local authorities.