Is this account alert from WhatsApp a scam?
Fake WhatsApp 'security alert' and 'account violation' messages are a common way scammers try to hijack accounts. A message, email or notification that looks like it's from WhatsApp can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real WhatsApp message from a fake.
Genuine WhatsApp links only ever go to whatsapp.com. Below is exactly what a real WhatsApp message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real WhatsApp message looks like
Genuine messages from WhatsApp only ever link to whatsapp.com.
- WhatsApp never sends SMS from any Australian mobile number to ask you to verify an account
- Real WhatsApp verification codes are shown only inside the app after you request them yourself
- WhatsApp does not email you links or codes; all account activity happens inside the official app downloaded from the App Store or Google Play
- A genuine WhatsApp message always shows the contact’s saved name or the number you already have in your phone, not an unknown Australian number claiming to be a relative
Crucially, WhatsApp will never ask for your password or a login code by message, or threaten to delete your account within minutes.
Common WhatsApp scams
- Unknown number texts you pretending to be your child or parent in distress and asks for money or gift cards
- Scammer claims they lost their phone and need a 6-digit WhatsApp verification code you just received
- Message arrives from a new number saying a family member’s account has been hacked and you must forward the code
Red flags to watch for
- Sender is an unknown Australian mobile number you have never saved
- Message asks you to share a WhatsApp verification code you just received
- Urgent request for money or gift cards from someone claiming to be family but using a different number
- Any link or attachment that claims to be from WhatsApp support
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating WhatsApp, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
Hi Mum, my phone broke and I had to get a new number. Can you send me the 6-digit WhatsApp code you just got so I can log back in? Love you x
What gives it away:
- Sender is an unknown Australian mobile number you have never saved
- Message asks you to share a WhatsApp verification code you just received
- Urgent request for money or gift cards from someone claiming to be family but using a different number
- Any link or attachment that claims to be from WhatsApp support
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious WhatsApp text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from WhatsApp
- Open the official WhatsApp app and go to Settings > Help to contact support inside the app
- Type whatsapp.com yourself in your browser to reach the genuine site
Where to report a scam impersonating WhatsApp
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating WhatsApp? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a text from WhatsApp asking for a verification code — is it a scam?
WhatsApp never sends SMS verification codes. Any text claiming to be from WhatsApp and asking for a code is a scam.
My child just texted from a new number saying they need money — could it be real?
Family members will not ask for urgent money transfers from a new number. Contact them through a known channel before sending anything.
How do I know if a WhatsApp message is really from a friend?
Only trust messages from numbers already saved in your contacts. If in doubt, call the person on a known number to confirm.
Where should I report a fake WhatsApp message?
Forward the message to 7226 and report it at scamwatch.gov.au or cyber.gov.au.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating WhatsApp usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other social names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with WhatsApp through an official channel.