Brits given WhatsApp warning as 'strange message' targets UK phones

Brits have been issued a warning after reports that a 'strange' WhatsApp message has been circulating on UK phones.

These days, it's so important to be extra cautious when it comes to messages and emails you receive online.

With fraudsters becoming more and more sophisticated, there are always new - and convincing - scams doing the rounds online.

And now, the British public has been warned about one that seems to be dominating WhatsApp.

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated. (Getty Stock Image)

The scams often draw on people's emotions, mimicking a family member or a loved one.

Often, they'll take a chance and start with, 'hi mum' - pretending to be a son or daughter - or even a friend with a commonly-used name.

Of course, if you're not a parent - or you don't know anyone with that specific name - you'll immediately realise the message isn't what it seems.

But for others, it's not so simple and far too many people have fallen victim to the scam, which often progresses to the fraudster asking the victim to transfer money.

There's a strange message going around on WhatsApp. (Jaque Silva/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Warning people on X, Action Fraud said: "Have you received an unusual request on WhatsApp from a family member or friend? If you receive a strange message, always call the person outside of WhatsApp to confirm their identity."

If you do receive a message like this, it's important to report it as soon as possible and block the number.

On WhatsApp, you can block the message by pressing the bubble and selecting 'report'.

On the issue of concerning messages, WhatsApp has said: "If a message looks suspicious or sounds too good to be true, don't tap, share, or forward it.

"As a best practice, if you aren’t sure whether something is true or don’t know who wrote the message you received, don’t forward it.

"If you’re unsure of an unknown contact’s identity, ask them a personal question to confirm their identity and if they’re truly a known contact. You could also do a voice or video call with them to confirm their identity."

The scam usually involves transferring money. (Getty Stock Image)

The messaging platform explained what to look for when evaluating if a message is suspicious.

WhatApp recommends looking out for:

• Typos or grammatical errors
• Requesting you to click on a link, activate a new feature through a link, or download an app
• Asking you to disclose personal data, e.g. your credit card or bank account details, birthday, or passwords
• Requesting you to forward a message
• Seeking cash or claiming that you have to pay to use WhatsApp
• Pretending they're someone you may know
• The message concerns subjects like the lottery, gambling, a job, an investment, or a loan
• The user starts talking with you to gain your trust before asking for personal information