Phuthuma Nathi WhatsApp Scam
01 October 2020
Learn more about the latest phishing attack, as well as how to protect yourself from potential attacks.
Latest Scam
We have received notification that shareholders have received WhatsApp messages requesting shareholder information and enticing shareholders to trade their shares - this is fraud.
Types of Fraud
Phishing
Phishing is when fraudsters attempt to gain access to your personal information, via an email or by a fake website/email address.
Smishing (SMS Phishing)
Fraudsters send you an SMS (text message) attempting to gain access to your personal information or click on a link to a fake website.
Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Vishing is when you receive a call and a fraudster pretends to be from a legitimate company and gets you to give them personal information.
Identity theft
Identity theft is when a false ID is created from your personal information gained via phishing/vishing or smishing. The aim is, pretending to be you, fraudsters create accounts, get loans etc.
Tips to Protect Yourself
1. Look out for spelling or grammar mistakes
A common sign that an email or SMS isn’t legitimate is that it contains spelling and/or grammar mistakes. Check closely for spelling and grammar mistakes.
2. Always check links and URL’s
The link in a phishing email may at first look legitimate. However, when you move the mouse over /hover over the link (without clicking it), and the actual URL is different than the one displayed – that is a sign of phishing.
3. Look at the sender address or source of the message
Be cautious of company names with web-based email addresses. e.g., [email protected], @hotmail.com, @gmail.com, @ymail.com.
4. Personal Information
Never share account details, log-in details and passwords.
5. Don’t Reply
Do not reply to messages that have asked you about any of your personal details or passwords.
6. Email/SMS that ask you to take immediate action or create a panic
Phishing emails often try to trick you into clicking a link by claiming that your account has been closed or put on hold. Don’t click the link no matter how authentic it appears. Login to the account in question by directly visiting the appropriate website, then check your account status.
7. The communication that claims that you have won a contest you didn’t enter
If you receive a communication notifying you that you won the lottery or another prize when you haven’t entered a contest, the email is most likely a scam. If you have entered a competition but feel suspicious, rather verify the details with the company by calling directly. Don’t give up any personal information.
8. Check the time
Check the time when the unknown message was sent. If the email or SMS message was sent at an unusual time, then that is another sign that it could be phishing or smishing.
9. Use Security Software
Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software and make sure you keep them up to date.
Report Fraud
If you receive something that you think is a scam or if you’re not sure whether something is legitimately from MultiChoice, please send an email to [email protected] or call 011 289 2222.