WhatsApp Introduces New Feature to Protect Users from Scammers

Red Dog Security

08 Aug 2025 — 2 min read

WhatsApp has rolled out a new security feature designed to help users identify potential scammers when someone outside their contact list invites them to a group chat.

The update introduces a "Safety Overview" warning that displays key details about the group—such as its creation date, total number of participants, and possible signs of fraudulent activity. Users will also see instructions for adjusting group invitation settings to limit unwanted requests.

“The warning will contain key details about the group and safety tips. After reviewing it, the user can leave the group without even opening the chat,” the company explained. “If the group seems familiar after checking the safety alert, you can still view the chat for more information.”

Direct Message Protections

To further shield users from scammers attempting one-on-one contact, WhatsApp will now alert users when they receive a message from someone outside their contacts. The notification will include additional details about the sender.

“We encourage you to pause and verify before responding to suspicious or unusual messages—especially if they come from an unknown number and promise quick money,” WhatsApp’s developers added.

The company noted that over 6.8 million accounts linked to scam operations were banned in just the first six months of 2025.

Crackdown on Fraud Networks

Earlier this year, WhatsApp’s developers worked with OpenAI to dismantle a large-scale fraudulent call center in Cambodia. The operation targeted victims with a variety of scams, including:

Cryptocurrency investment schemes
Fake “pay-for-likes” offers
Financial pyramid schemes (including one involving scooter rentals)

In one case, scammers used ChatGPT to craft convincing initial messages containing a link to a WhatsApp chat. That link redirected victims to Telegram, where they were asked to perform small tasks—such as liking TikTok videos—in exchange for promised payments.

According to WhatsApp, these scam centers often run multiple fraudulent campaigns simultaneously. A typical attack might begin with an innocent-looking text message, then escalate across social media and messaging apps, and eventually funnel the victim toward payment or cryptocurrency platforms.

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