WhatsApp Scams UK — The Complete Guide to Staying Safe
Updated July 2026 · 7 min read · By Silent Erase | ICO Registered C1971457
WhatsApp has become one of the most common platforms for scams targeting UK residents. With over 30 million UK users fraudsters have followed — and the intimate nature of WhatsApp messaging makes their approaches feel more personal and convincing than other channels.
Major threat:
Report Fraud receives thousands of WhatsApp scam reports every month. The Hi Mum scam alone has cost UK victims tens of millions of pounds. WhatsApp scams increased by over 2000% between 2021 and 2024.
The Most Common WhatsApp Scams
Hi Mum / Hi Dad Scam A message from an unknown number claiming to be your child saying they have a new phone. Once you respond they create an emergency and ask for money. See our dedicated guide at silenterase.com/grandparent-scams-uk for full details.
Verification Code Theft You receive a WhatsApp message from a friend saying they accidentally sent a verification code to your number and asking you to forward it. The code is actually used to take over your WhatsApp account — then used to scam your contacts.
"Hey! I accidentally sent a WhatsApp verification code to your number instead of mine. Could you send it to me? It's really urgent 🙏"
Fake Investment Groups You are added to a WhatsApp group where members discuss investment opportunities — often crypto or forex. The group is controlled by scammers and all members except you are fake accounts. They pressure you to invest and then disappear with your money.
Prize and Lottery Notifications Messages claiming you have won a prize or lottery and asking you to click a link or pay a fee to claim your winnings. These are always scams.
Romance Scams via WhatsApp After initial contact on dating apps or social media scammers move conversations to WhatsApp — which feels more intimate and personal — before building a relationship and eventually asking for money.
How to Stay Safe on WhatsApp
Never forward verification codes — WhatsApp verification codes are for your account only. Never forward them to anyone regardless of the reason given.
Enable two-step verification — go to Settings → Account → Two-step verification and set a PIN. This prevents criminals from taking over your account even if they get your verification code.
Be cautious of unknown numbers — if you receive a message from an unknown number claiming to be someone you know always verify by calling their original known number.
Never send money via WhatsApp — regardless of who is asking or how urgent it seems verify the request in person or by phone before sending any money.
Be sceptical of investment groups — if you are added to a WhatsApp investment group by someone you do not know leave immediately.
Report WhatsApp scams:
Forward scam messages to 7726. Block and report the sender within WhatsApp by tapping the contact name → Block → Report. Report to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk.
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