Scammers impersonate known contacts to steal verification codes and seize accounts
Singapore police have issued a warning about a new scam variant targeting WhatsApp users, where fraudsters trick victims into sharing verification codes that allow hackers to take over their accounts.
New WhatsApp Scam Targets Verification Codes
Singapore police have warned the public about a scam that allows fraudsters to take control of victims’ WhatsApp accounts.
The scam begins when criminals attempt to log into a victim’s WhatsApp account by entering the victim’s mobile number and requesting a verification one-time password (OTP).
Victims Receive Fake Requests From Contacts
Victims then receive an SMS containing the OTP needed to log into their account.
At the same time, scammers posing as known contacts whose WhatsApp accounts have already been compromised send messages asking victims to share the code.
Scammers Use OTP to Take Over Accounts
Victims are told the OTP was mistakenly sent to them instead of the contact.
Once the victim shares the code, scammers use it to log into the WhatsApp account, immediately logging the victim out.
Scam Spreads Through Contact Lists
After gaining access, scammers repeat the same tactic with the victim’s contacts.
Many victims only realise their accounts have been compromised when they are logged out or when friends alert them to suspicious OTP requests.
Police Advise Safety Measures
Police said no financial losses have been reported so far but urged the public to remain vigilant.
Users are advised to never share OTPs, remove unknown linked devices from WhatsApp accounts, and enable two-step verification for added security.
Authorities emphasised that vigilance remains the best defence against scams. The public is encouraged to use the ACT framework — Add the ScamShield app, Check for scam signs, and Tell authorities or loved ones about suspected scams.
Sources: Asia One (2026)
Keywords: WhatsApp OTP Scam Singapore, WhatsApp Account Hijack Scam, Singapore Police Scam Advisory, WhatsApp Two Step Verification Safety, Social Media Scam Singapore
