What happens if I answer an unknown WhatsApp call?

The Lurking Dangers Behind that Unknown WhatsApp Call

Your phone buzzes. An incoming WhatsApp call. The number is unfamiliar. Curiosity, or perhaps a flicker of expectation that it might be something important, tempts you to answer. But before you swipe that green button, consider the potential risks lurking behind that unknown call.

Answering a WhatsApp call from an unknown number can be more than just an annoyance; it can be a gateway for a range of cyber threats. While many of us are wary of suspicious links and emails, we often let our guard down with calls, especially on platforms like WhatsApp that feel more personal and secure. However, this perceived safety can be a dangerous illusion.

Simply answering the call can confirm to scammers that your number is active and in use. This makes you a prime target for further spam calls and messages, clogging your notifications and increasing the likelihood of falling victim to more elaborate scams. Think of it like leaving your front door unlocked – it’s an invitation for unwanted guests.

The dangers go beyond mere nuisance. Confirmed active numbers are valuable commodities in the murky world of cybercrime. They can be sold on to other malicious actors, increasing your exposure to phishing attempts, identity theft, and financial fraud. These criminals may try to trick you into revealing sensitive information like bank details, passwords, or even your social security number, leading to significant financial losses.

A more sinister, emerging threat is voice cloning. Cybercriminals can record even short snippets of your voice gleaned from answered calls and use sophisticated AI technology to create convincing impersonations. These cloned voices can then be used to deceive your contacts, potentially requesting money or accessing sensitive information under your guise.

So, what should you do when faced with an unknown WhatsApp call? The safest course of action is simply to ignore it. If the call is genuinely important, the caller will likely leave a message or try contacting you through other means. WhatsApp also provides features to block and report suspicious numbers, which you should utilize if you repeatedly receive unwanted calls from the same number.

Protecting yourself in the digital age requires vigilance. Don’t let a moment of curiosity expose you to the potential dangers lurking behind an unknown WhatsApp call. Silence can be golden, especially when it comes to your online safety.