SLASSCOM champions awareness, education and Industry collaboration to combat WhatsApp scams
WhatsApp has become a prime target for scammers using deceptive technique to defraud users. In response, SLASSCOM, Sri Lanka’s leading IT/BPM industry body, has taken a lead role in championing awareness, education and Industry collaboration to Combat these scams.
SLASSCOM Head of the CSCx Forum Sithira Wanniarachchi, said that common tactics scammers deploy include the impersonation of renowned brands or individuals, and in manufacturing fake emergencies to induce immediate responses, tempting users with unbelievable offers or prizes and utilizing links to pilfer personal information. He explained that while WhatsApp scams can target any sector, industries such as financial services, online shopping, and tech support are particularly vulnerable due to the potential for financial gain.
He emphasised that recognising the telltale signs of a WhatsApp scam is paramount. ‘Red flags include unsolicited messages from unknown numbers, requests for personal or financial information and offers that appear too good to be true.
When faced with such instances verifying the sender’s identity, exercising caution when encountering suspicious links or attachments, enabling two-factor authentication and staying informed about prevalent scam tactics and only allowing only your contacts to add you to groups are essential steps in safeguarding against these fraudulent activities.
It is important to report such encountered fraudulent behavior on WhatsApp to relevant authorities, agencies, or WhatsApp itself. Many countries offer dedicated platforms, such as consumer protection agencies, cybercrime units, and online fraud reporting platforms, to address such incidents. In Sri Lanka these include the CCID, SL CERT, National Child Protection Authority, Ministry of Women and Child Affairs and Women In Need.’
Sithira also expressed the imperative of fostering collaborative efforts to counter these scams effectively. “Cybersecurity is not merely a concern for individual users or specific organizations; it is a shared responsibility that demands collective action and necessitates a united front fostering alliances between industry players, government agencies and law enforcement.”
Underscoring the need to raise awareness and enhance cybersecurity literacy among individuals and organisations, Sithira explained that SLASSCOM advocates for widespread education on Cybersecurity to empower individuals and businesses to identify and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. Through the provision of training and awareness programs, conducting research on emerging threats, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies, the centre will help to enhance cybersecurity measures and mitigate the risks posed by cybercriminal activities.
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