In its recently released “India Monthly Report,” WhatsApp disclosed the actions taken against fraudulent accounts in the country between July 1 and July 31, 2023. The report revealed that during this period, over 7.2 million suspicious WhatsApp accounts were banned by the platform. Strikingly, out of these, 3.1 million accounts were preemptively banned as a precautionary measure, even without any user reports. To identify Indian accounts, WhatsApp uses the +91 country code.
Under the IT Rules of 2021, WhatsApp regularly shares reports that provide insights into the number of complaints received from users and the actions taken. In July, WhatsApp received a total of 11,067 user reports in India. The platform stated that it took action on 72 of these reports. By sharing these reports, WhatsApp aims to maintain transparency and keep users informed about its efforts in curbing abuse and ensuring secure messaging services.
To strengthen their security measures, WhatsApp has assembled a dedicated team of experts, including engineers, data scientists, analysts, researchers, and law enforcement professionals. This team is entrusted with overseeing anti-abuse initiatives and the development of advanced security features and controls. WhatsApp is committed to being at the forefront of combating online abuse and providing a safe messaging experience for users.
One common scam on WhatsApp involves receiving calls or messages from international numbers with country codes such as Ethiopia (+251), Malaysia (+60), Indonesia (+62), Kenya (+254), and Vietnam (+84). Scammers often employ various tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. It is important to remember that the geographical location associated with WhatsApp calls is not indicative of the caller’s actual physical location. WhatsApp calls operate over the internet, enabling anyone to make an international call while sitting in the same city as the recipient.
With the rise of online fraud, it is crucial for users to remain vigilant and protect themselves from potential scams. It is advisable to exercise caution when interacting with unknown numbers or messages and refrain from sharing personal or financial information with untrusted sources. Keeping oneself informed about the latest security practices can significantly minimize the risks associated with fraudulent activities.
WhatsApp is continually working towards enhancing user safety and combating abuse. By fostering transparency, implementing robust security measures, and empowering users with knowledge, WhatsApp strives to provide a secure messaging platform where users can connect and communicate with confidence.
Stay safe! ✨📲💙
(Note: The information provided in this article is based on the mentioned report and does not account for any developments post that period.)